Archbishop of Ohrid returns to public worship after absence for health reasons

Archbishop Stefan of Ohrid has made his first public appearance after several weeks away from public liturgical activities for health reasons.

The Archbishop prayerfully attended the Divine Liturgy at the Church of the Nativity of the Theotokos in Skopje on September 21, for the feast of the Nativity of the Theotokos. The service was celebrated with his blessing.

His appearance followed a period during which Archbishop Stefan had withdrawn from a number of public liturgical and scheduled activities.

On August 25, the Office of the Holy Synod announced that the Archbishop would not make his planned visit to the American-Canadian Diocese “due to health reasons and upon the recommendation of his doctors.”

The visit had been scheduled in connection with diocesan gatherings hosted by the Church Community of Saints Cyril and Methodius in Willowbrook, Chicago.

Archbishop Stefan had also been absent from the Divine Liturgy for the feast of the Transfiguration of Christ on August 19.

The Archdiocese did not disclose further details regarding his health at the time, stating only that the cancellation of his trip had been decided following medical advice.

His attendance at the…