With the blessing of His Eminence John, Metropolitan of Dubna, His Grace Elisey, Bishop of Reutov, made a pastoral visit to the Hermitage of All Saints of Russia on the occasion of its patronal feast.
Bishop Elisey arrived the evening before and presided at the Sunday Liturgy.
He was welcomed, at the entrance, by Archpriest Andre and Hieromonk of the Great Schema Ambrose. Guests were also present: Hegumen Augustin (MacBeth) and Archpriest Adrian Haraha, as well as Protodeacon Jean Drobot.
The Divine Liturgy was celebrated under a tent specially prepared by Father Ambrose. This made it possible to avoid suffering from the heat and to welcome all the pilgrims who came in large numbers. There was the usual community of believers, joined by parishioners who came from Chelles.
With the blessing of Bishop Elisey, Father Andre gave the homily.
At the end of the Liturgy there was a great procession, with a first prayer before the entrance Cross of the Hermitage. A stop before the graves of the monks made it possible to commemorate all the monks, in particular the founder, Father Alexis, whose 80th anniversary of his repose in the Lord had fallen a few days earlier. The chant “Memory Eternal” was raised for them, as well as for Father Georges Drobot.
In a few words at the end of the Liturgy, Bishop Elisey recalled that among the great number of saints of all Russia there is an example for each of us, and invited us to read the lives of the saints.
Father Dominique Lê, parish priest of the Catholic parishes of Suippes and Mourmelon, joined our feast as soon as he was able to free himself from his obligations.
Everyone gathered around a true festive meal. At the beginning of the meal, Protodeacon Jean conveyed the blessing of Metropolitan John and his wishes for a happy feast to all those present.
We thank Bishop Elisey, all the celebrants and the visitors very much for their presence.
Archpriest André DROBOT, Dean of the North-East Paris Deanery
