PS Mihail blessed the placing of the Cross on the Romanian church in Christchurch, New Zealandtranslated

Bishop Michael of Australia and New Zealand served on Sunday in the Assumption Parish in Christchurch, New Zealand, where he performed the blessing of placing the Cross on the place of worship.

His Eminence congratulated the Romanian community in the city, which participated in large numbers at the Holy Liturgy, for the completion of the construction of the new church tower.

"Now, coming to the holy church, let the people who are burdened with hardships or tried by temptations raise their eyes to the Holy Cross and, just as the Jewish people were healed by looking at the brass snake, so let us have faith and hope that God will help us in ours," said the hierarch.

The Most Reverend Father Mihail awarded the "Australian Cross" to believers who supported the works carried out within the parish.

At the same time, parish priest Dumitru Dan received, for the Orthodox community he pastors, the "Distinction of Merit", as a sign of recognition of the effort made.

Holy Liturgy The solemn moment of the blessing was preceded by the Holy Liturgy officiated by His Eminence together with Father Dumitru Dan.

"And as Moses lifted up...