Metropolitan Vladimir of Chisinau and all Moldova was greeted with much spiritual joy in the community of Stefanesti, Floresti region, to celebrate the Divine Liturgy and bless the Nativity of the Theotokos parish church after renovation.
Archpriest Igor Solonaru, the parish rector, archpriest Ioan Zambreanu, District Dean, and numerous other clerics assisted the arch-pastor at the Divine Service.
During the Small Entrance, Metropolitan Vladimir awarded to Fr. Igor Solonaru a high church distinction – the 3rd degree Order of Church Merit, in sign of appreciation of pastoral efforts and outstanding merits.
After the Communion, the arch-pastor was accompanied by the liturgical community in a Cross Procession around the church building, with hymns and Gospel Readings.
Thanks-giving litany followed, then Metropolitan Vladimir addressed a message of arch-pastoral guidance, talking on the meaning of the Gospel Reading of the Liturgy and congratulating the parishioners and their pastor on the completion of the renovation works.
Father Metropolitan wished the parish rector long live and devoted service at the Holy Altar.
Fr. Igor, in his turn, give thanks to God for the blessing and help in the guidance of the pasture, and thanked Metropolitan Vladimir for the support and encouragement.
Metropoltian Vladimir presented every participant with prayer books and icons, in the memory of the Feast and for strengthening in spiritual growth.
Synodal Sector of Institutional Communication and Mass-Media Relations.