Metropolitan Amvrosy of Tver and Kashin and Bishop Dimitrios (Sharback) of Safita from the Antiochian Orthodox Church concelebrated the Divine Liturgy on 23 November at the Transfiguration Cathedral in Tver, the diocesan website reported.

Following the service, Metropolitan Amvrosy warmly greeted the guest from the Antiochian Church, emphasizing the spiritual unity of Orthodox peoples. He recalled the difficult history of the cathedral, which was destroyed in 1935 and later restored, and noted that persecution of the Church has once again intensified — including against the Ukrainian Orthodox Church. He also expressed fraternal solidarity with the Antiochian Church, which continues to face severe trials.

Bishop Dimitrios thanked Patriarch Kirill for the opportunity to visit Russian metropolises and reflected on the significance of the concelebration. “This blessing and the opportunity to serve together are especially precious to us in such a difficult time. Trials only strengthen our spirit and faith. Every shared service, every prayer gives us strength,” he said. He praised the high liturgical culture in Russia, spoke of the longstanding friendship between the two Local Churches, and expressed hope for continued spiritual ties.

During his visit to Russia, Bishop Dimitrios also spoke to journalists about the situation of Christians in Syria. According to reports from RIA Novosti, he said many families are considering emigration due to insecurity and concerns for their children’s future. The Antiochian Church is working to stem this exodus by developing social initiatives, education, medical support, and employment projects. The diocese is also maintaining dialogue with government authorities in an effort to ease tensions. The Russian organization Christian World has been assisting these efforts, helping Syrian children learn the Russian language and become acquainted with Russian culture. Bishop Dimitrios expressed hope that peace and harmony would soon be restored in Syria.