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On Orthodox Christmas Putin vows to back soldiers who “defend” Russia

Russia's President Vladimir Putin attends the Orthodox Christmas liturgy at a cathedral on the territory of the Novo-Ogaryovo state residence outside Moscow, Russia, on 7th January, 2024.

Reuters President Vladimir Putin vowed on the eve of Orthodox Christmas to back soldiers who “with arms in hands” defend Russia’s interests, ordering his government greater support of those who fight and calling on his people to be merciful and just.  “Many of our men, our courageous, heroic guys, Russian warriors, even now, on this […]

Ukraine reclaims Kyiv cathedral amid church dispute

Ukraine Kyiv Pechersk Lavra monastic complex

Kyiv, UkraineAP The Ukrainian Government has taken the main cathedral of the revered historic monastery from the church previously affiliated with Moscow’s patriarchate and allowed its Ukrainian rival to use it for Orthodox Christmas services. The move comes as the long-running tensions between the two churches exacerbated amid Russia’s war in Ukraine. A bird flies over […]

Orthodox celebrate Christmas in shadow of conflict

Russia Moscow Patriarch Kirill Christmas

Moscow, Russia AP Orthodox Christians packed churches on Friday evening for Christmas Eve services, a holiday darkened for many by the conflict raging between Orthodox neighbours Russia and Ukraine. Patriarch Kirill, leader of the Russian Orthodox Church, the world’s largest Orthodox denomination, led elaborate services at Moscow’s Christ the Savior Cathedral, with dozens of priests […]

Orthodox observe Christmas amid virus concerns

Russia Russian Orthodox Patriarch Kirill Orthodox Christmas

Moscow, Russia AP Orthodox Christians in Russia, Serbia and other countries began Christmas observances Thursday amid restrictions aimed at dampening the spread of the coronavirus, but few worshippers appeared concerned as they streamed into churches. The majority of Orthodox believers celebrate Christmas on 7th January, with midnight services especially popular. The churches in Romania, Bulgaria, […]