On 3rd and 4th May the memory of the Great Martyr St Irene was celebrated in the Parish Community of the same name in the city of Dolisie, with great devotion. His Grace Panteleimon, Bishop of Congo-Brazzaville and Gabon officiated at Great Vespers, conducted the Divine Liturgy and preached the homily, speaking of the meaning of peace from a theological point of view, as well as about the important role of women in the general life of the Church, according to the example of St Irene and the Holy Myrrh-bearing women.
Prior to the end of the Eucharisitc Gathering, the Honourable Mr. Ndalou, Chairman of the Parish Community, made a heartfelt address to His Grace. Traditional dancing and singing followed from the young people, acceptance to the representatives of the Officials of the department of Niari, as well as an interview granted to a local station which covered the Divine Liturgy on television, by His Grace about the missionary work of the Ancient Patriarchate in Africa
In conclusion, within the framework of His Grace’s two-day stay in Dolisie, he had the opportunity of lengthy collaboration with the administration and staff of the “St Efstathios” Orthodox Orphanage, the new Parish Priest of the Parish of St Irene Fr. Pavlo Diafouka, as well as with the members of the new Church Council (www.orthodoxchurchcongo.org).