ROCOR Primate supports Sviatohirsk Lavra brotherhood after monk's murder
Metropolitan Nicholas called for prayers for the protection of the Sviatohirsk Lavra.
The First Hierarch of ROCOR, Metropolitan Nicholas, sent condolences to the abbot of the Sviatohirsk Lavra, Metropolitan Arseniy, and the brotherhood of the monastery following the murder of Monk Varsonofiy. The bishop assured the monastery of his prayerful compassion and spiritual solidarity, reports the UOJ in the USA.
In his address, the First Hierarch noted that the overseas flock received the news of the monk's death with profound grief. "With deep sorrow and heartfelt pain, we learned about the tragic passing of Monk Varsonofy of Sviatohirsk Lavra, who died at the hands of lawless men," said Metropolitan Nicholas.
The First Hierarch said the Sviatohirsk Lavra holds a special place in the spiritual memory of both the ROCOR. The hierarch recalled that in the 20th century, the Holy Mountains sheltered monks who had fled from the Pochaiv community, and that since 2014 the monastery once again opened its doors to thousands of refugees who had lost their homes. Metropolitan Nicholas described the presence of the relics of Saint John of Shanghai and San Francisco in the monastery as a special spiritual bond.
"This connection is not just a historical memory for us,” Metr. Nicholas wrote. “It is evidence that, despite distances, tribulation, and the passage of time, the united spirit of Orthodox monasticism and Christian charity unites Sviatohirsk." He said the renewed tragedy had strengthened ROCOR’s sense of solidarity with the Lavra and its suffering community.
"Today, as a new tragedy has touched the brotherhood of Sviatohirsk, we once again feel ourselves standing beside you – not only in heart but also in prayer," the First Hierarch continued.
Metropolitan Nicholas offered prayers for the repose of the murdered Monk Varsonofiy, for the recovery and strengthening of the wounded Monk Gregory, the safety of the monastery, and the courage of its brethren. Metr. Nicholas also remembered the refugees and other suffering people who continue to receive shelter and pastoral care at the Lavra.
In conclusion of his address, the First Hierarch of ROCOR expressed hope that the martyric death of the newly-departed would serve as an example of steadfastness for all the faithful. "And may the memory of the martyrdom of the Monk Varsonofy serve for all of us not only as a reminder of the tragedy, but also as a testimony of faithfulness to Christ, to the monastic calling, and to the holy place to which he dedicated his life," Metropolitan Nicholas concluded.
As the UOJ previously reported, Robert Amsterdam demands an investigation into the murder of a monk at the Sviatohirsk Lavra.
