Construction of a new church in honor of the Theotokos is underway in the Philippines.
On November 22, on the feast of the She Who Is Quick to Hear Icon of the Most Holy Theotokos, the foundation stone of a future church of the same name was consecrated on the island of Panglao, reports the Diocese of the Philippines and Vietnam.
With the blessing of His Eminence Metropolitan Pavel of Manila and Hanoi, the consecration was celebrated by diocesan secretary Hieromonk Kornily (Molev), together with the dean of the Manila District, Hieromonk Alexei (Lapshin).
The rite was preceded by a moleben to the Most Holy Theotokos.
Panglao is the most popular Filipino island among Russian tourists and is home to a number of Filipinos.
Another parish community began on Bright Saturday, April 23, with its first Divine Liturgy and the Baptism of 26 people. There are currently more than 35 parishes in the diocese.