It was with immense joy that the parish of Christ the Saviour in Orléans welcomed Bishop Elisey on Sunday, 14 September 2025, accompanied by Reader Ionut, on the occasion of the parish feast. Many of us gathered to welcome our bishop and to celebrate together the Exaltation of the Holy Cross, that purifying, redeeming and saving cross which reflects the sacrifice of our Lord Jesus Christ, who by His crucifixion redeemed the sin of mankind and saved it from eternal death.
In his homily, Bishop Elisey reminded us of the meaning of this feast and of the place of the Cross in the life of every Christian and of the Orthodox community. At the end of the service, he was also able to see how the parish has developed and to congratulate its members on their various commitments. He also conveyed the blessing of Metropolitan John and encouraged Father Ioakim, our rector, in his pastoral and liturgical mission.
Following the Divine Liturgy, we gathered in joy and good cheer around a delicious meal prepared by all the parishioners, which allowed us all to share a convivial, warm and fraternal moment in the presence of our dear Bishop Elisey. This banquet, which brought us all together, allowed us to talk, laugh, enjoy ourselves and, of course, feast, fostering harmony, cohesion, friendship and well-being among the Christians of the parish. We had the pleasure of being very numerous, coming from different backgrounds, which reflects the cultural diversity of our community, drawn from every corner of the Orthodox world.
Beyond the joyful, warm and festive character of this memorable meal, the speech given by Father Ioakim at the end of the meal touched us all to the heart, for with fervour and warmth he thanked Bishop Elisey for honouring us with his precious presence, all those who had officiated that Sunday, and the parishioners who had helped to make this feast an unforgettable occasion. To this was added the reply of Bishop Elisey, delighted by the welcome he had received and asking us to take good care of our dear Father Ioakim. At that very moment, an indescribable emotion overwhelmed us, as kindness and gentleness flowed from his voice, captivating us. Bishop Elisey also assured us that he would soon return to visit us again to encourage, support and guide our parish life.
The whole parish, together with Father Ioakim, thanks Bishop Elisey for his visit, as well as Reader Ionut; likewise, our most sincere thanks and prayers are addressed to our Metropolitan John for having granted our request and sent us our auxiliary bishop! Glory to God for all things!
Secretary of the Orthodox Parish of Christ the Saviour, Orléans
Assistant Secretary