Patriarchal Greeting from Metropolitan Niki to Bishop Agathangel on the Anniversary of the Diocesan Cathedral in Honor of the Icon of the Mother of God "Joy of All Who Sorrow"translated

VENERABLE AGATHANGELOU,

VENERABLE AGATHANGELOU,

BISHOP OF NORILSK AND TURUKHAN

Your Venerability, dear Hierarch!

Heartfelt congratulations on this significant date — the 35th anniversary of the Diocesan Cathedral in Honor of the Icon of the Mother of God "Joy of All Who Sorrow" in Norilsk.

Three and a half decades ago, on a site consecrated by the prayers and sufferings of confessors of the faith, this beautiful church was erected, becoming the spiritual heart of the polar Norilsk. Today, it is difficult to imagine the life of the city without this sanctuary, where prayers are raised daily, where believers find comfort and strength in the harsh conditions of the Far North.

Through your efforts, your personal participation, and your care, the cathedral continues to be adorned and remains the center of ecclesiastical, educational, and social life for the entire Norilsk diocese. It is gratifying to recognize that under your archpastoral guidance, the parish community lives a full life, and ancient traditions of piety are combined with active service to one's neighbors.

On this festive day, I pray that you, dear Hierarch, may be granted spiritual and bodily strength, and abundant divine assistance in your responsible service on the Taimyr and Turukhan territories. May…