Patriarch of Constantinople reinstates Andrei Kuraev in priesthood

Protodeacon Andrei Kuraev at the relics of St Nicholas. Photo: diak-kuraev.livejournal.com

Former ROC cleric Protodeacon Andrei Kuraev announced that the decree restoring him to the sacred rank was signed on April 3, 2024.

The Patriarch of Constantinople, Bartholomew, revoked the decree by Patriarch Kirill, whereby the Russain Protodeacon Andrei Kuraev was defrocked.

In his LiveJournal, former ROC cleric Protodeacon Andrei Kuraev wrote that he had received an "electronic decree". From the priest's post, it can be concluded that this decree concerns his appeal to Patriarch Bartholomew.

"Exactly 15 years ago today, on April 5, Patriarch Kirill elevated me to the rank of protodeacon in the Isaac Cathedral. Today, exactly 15 years later, on the same day, April 5, I received an email with the decree...," wrote the protodeacon.

The clergyman emphasized that "the decree itself (from Patriarch Bartholomew) was signed on April 3, 2024. But again, on this day, April 3, 2021, there was a decree by Patriarch Kirill depriving me of my priestly dignity (with a moratorium)."

"Lord, am I still needed by You so that You give such 'coincidences'?" concluded Protodeacon Andrei Kuraev.

Earlier, it was reported that Protodeacon Andrei Kuraev was defrocked.

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