Every year we see the number of pilgrims growing, - governor of Pochaev Lavra (VIDEO)

The number of pilgrims taking part in the Cross Procession has increased this year, said the governor of the Holy Dormition Pochaev Lavra Vladimir (Moroz) to a UOJ correspondent. The number of the faithful in the prayerful procession from Kamenets-Podolsky to Pochaev has exceeded 20 thousand people, according to preliminary data.

"The people have covered a very long route. This is a serious physical trial. However, you can see how joyful their faces are. Joy is a special spiritual state of a person after a godly deed is accomplished. Though being physically tired, the believers felt high-spirited because the efforts they have taken was for the glory of God and their own salvation. This Cross Procession has already become a good 180-year old tradition. And every year we see the number of pilgrims growing. They are happy to bring their physical and spiritual labor as a gift to the upcoming feast," said Metropolitan Vladimir.

The Cross Procession started in Kamenets-Podolsky on 19 August. The faithful came to Pochaev on 25 August, in the afternoon.

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