Phanar’s Exarch attends Jewish celebration in Anatevka
Guests and clergy at the celebration in Anatevka. Photo: OrthodoxTimes
On August 26, 2025, Bishop Michael (Anishchenko) of Comana, the Exarch of the Ecumenical Patriarch in Ukraine, at the invitation of the Chief Rabbi of Ukraine, Moshe Reuven Asman, participated in festivities in the settlement of Anatevka in the Kyiv region, reports OrthodoxTimes.
The celebrations took place in Anatevka – a settlement founded in 2015 by the Chief Rabbi of Ukraine as a refuge for Jewish families forced to leave their homes due to military conflict.
The festive program combined several events: the opening of the Matityahu House, named after Matityahu Samborsky, the late son of Rabbi Asman; the inauguration of the Alley of Heroes in memory of fallen Jewish soldiers; and a traditional Jewish wedding (chuppah). In addition, the community marked the 10th anniversary of Anatevka.
Bishop Michael participated in the opening ceremony, cutting the ribbon at the entrance to the Matityahu House. This gesture was presented as a symbol of interfaith solidarity.
Among the invited guests were U.S. Chargé d’Affaires in Ukraine Julie D. Fisher, Israeli Ambassador Michael Brodsky, Polish diplomat Piotr Łukaszewicz, Israeli Minister of Religious Services Michael Malchieli, and other officials and dignitaries.
Organizers emphasized that the event had both a commemorative character and importance for community life, serving as a sign of memory and support in difficult times.
Earlier, the UOJ reported that DESS announced the organization of “the world’s largest Jewish pilgrimage.”
Read also
300 catechumens expected to be baptized at Pascha in OCA parish
At a parish of the Orthodox Church in America in Riverside, California, around 300 catechumens are preparing during Great Lent to receive Baptism at Pascha.
Nuncio in Ukraine explains why Vatican does not call Russia an aggressor
According to the nuncio, the Pope prefers moral language and avoids terms such as “aggression” and “aggressor.”
MP: Pochaiv Lavra brethren are Moskals, the shrine must be given to Ukraine
Nataliia Pipa called the brethren of the Pochaiv Lavra “enemies” and “occupiers,” and also said she would “apply pressure” to secure the shrine’s “return.”
MP: Authorities demand eviction of Myltsi Monastery brotherhood through court
Officials decided to use the courts to seek the expulsion of UOC monks from an ancient monastery in Polissia.
Synod of Georgian Church holds session in connection with Primate's repose
The Holy Synod approved the Locum Tenens of the Patriarchal Throne and appointed the date for the funeral of Patriarch Ilia.
In Armenia, Bishop Mkrtich Proshyan released from house arrest
The court lifted the preventive measure against the head of the Aragatsotn Diocese of the Armenian Apostolic Church.