World Russian People's Council was held in Moscow. The meeting discussed migration, education, demography, ideology, and economy. President Vladimir Putin and Patriarch Kirill of Moscow and All Russia addressed the assembly. Putin emphasized Russia's opposition to Western anti-cultural primitivism, promoting its unique culture and education system rooted in traditional religions. Patriarch Kirill called for prayers for Russia and the Church. The World Russian People's Council also supported the initiative to canonize military commander Alexander Suvorov, originating from Patriarch Kirill.
Authorities forcibly removed students from the spiritual school of the canonical Ukrainian Orthodox Church in Western Ukraine. Local authorities had long attempted to seize the school and St. Nicholas Cathedral from the Ternopil Diocese, claiming illegal use of a nationally significant architectural monument. Legal action has been taken against the canonical church to vacate the premises.
A bill prohibiting religious organizations from engaging in politics was passed. According to the document, religious organizations are forbidden from participating in political parties, providing financial support, and engaging in political agitation. Additionally, the bill tightens conditions for the registration and simplifies the liquidation process of religious organizations.
The Patriarch of Bulgaria has been hospitalized with a lung ailment. The Holy Synod called on Bulgarian believers to pray for their Patriarch. It's worth noting that on October 15, 2023, the Bulgarian Patriarch turned 78.
The trial of the deputy of the Kyiv-Pechersk Lavra has begun. The prosecutor accused the hierarch of offending the religious feelings of Ukrainians. Meanwhile, Metropolitan Pavel told journalists that he had not done anything he is accused of. The authorities are reportedly pressuring him to "compromise" and recognize the schismatic Orthodox Church of Ukraine (OCU).
The Berlin-German Diocese opened an Orthodox theological school in the German language for those interested in Orthodoxy, preparing for baptism or seeking theological education. The diocese noted an increasing demand for Sunday school teachers and catechists capable of independently conveying Orthodox faith in German.
Anniversary of Vienna and Austrian Dioceses. The dioceses celebrate their 60th anniversary. An exhibition of copies of Novgorod icons from the 13th to 16th centuries has been opened in the Russian House in Vienna. The exhibits are printed with ultraviolet inks, precisely replicating the size and even the minor flaws of the original icons. The exhibition features copies of globally renowned relics from the Novgorod Museum's collection.
Consecratio of a church in Bosnia and Herzegovina. The Temple of St. Sava was consecrated today in Foca, Bosnia and Herzegovina. The Patriarch of Serbia Porfirije conducted the consecration ceremony, specially arriving in the Dabar-Bosnian Diocese. The St. Sava Church construction began in 1998; it is the largest temple not only in the Republic of Srpska but also in all of Bosnia and Herzegovina.