Department for External Church Relations
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Metropolitan Eugene of Tallinn is forced to leave Estonia
DECR Communication Service, 06/02/2024
On February 5, 2024, the Estonian Police and Border Guard Board formally notified Metropolitan Eugene of Tallinn and All Estonia that his request to renew his temporary residence permit had been denied, patriarchia.ru reports citing website of the Estonian Orthodox Church of the Moscow Patriarchate.
The official notification was handed over to Metropolitan Eugene on the Church Administration premises: Tallinn, Pikk Street 64/1-4.
His Eminence will leave Estonia on February 6. Prior to his departure, the Primate of the Estonian Orthodox Church addressed his flock. The text of his message is given below.
“Right Reverend archpastors, all-honourable fathers, dear brothers and sisters,
“Christ is Risen!
“Saint Paul teaches us Christians to react good-naturedly to everything that happens to us. He writes, Rejoice always, pray constantly, give thanks in all circumstances (1 Thess 5:16-18). The source of our joy and placidity is not worldly success or our achievements, but our faith. Through the Cross joy has come into all the world. And, as Christ says, no one will take your joy from you (Jn 16:22). So, I would like to call upon you to be good-natured and joyful in spirit and thank God for everything, as this is what our Lord expects of us.
“Indeed, plentiful are things we ought to thank God for! Much has happened over the past few days. For the first time in 34 years, an episcopal consecration took place in the Estonian land in our Church; the Synod held its meeting this week; the Council was convened. Over the past six months, two deacons were ordained. Youth, cultural and educational meetings are held. And, above all, divine services and sacraments are celebrated in our churches! It is very important for us to remember that and give thanks to our Lord God for everything! I urge all of you to maintain the unity of the Spirit in the bond of peace (Eph 4:3).
“It is our hope that with God’s help the church life will keep following its course. There are two auxiliary bishops in Estonia who with my blessing may fully exercise the powers of the Primate of our Church. As for me, I stay in contact and, though remotely, continue to take care of the Church entrusted to me.
“May our All-Merciful Lord help us follow the path of Christ’s commandments and draw nearer to His Heavenly Kingdom!
“Christ is in our midst!
“May the blessing of God be always with you!”
Patriarch
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