U.S. Congresswoman visits Orthodox church in Florida

Anna Paulina Luna visited St. Andrew Stratelates Cathedral in St. Petersburg. Photo: eadiocese.org

U.S. Congresswoman Anna Paulina Luna visited St. Andrew Stratelates Cathedral in St. Petersburg, Florida, where she met with clergy and parishioners of the Orthodox community, according to the UOJ editorial office in the United States.

During the visit, the congresswoman asked about the history of the parish and its current life and work. According to the diocesan report, the conversation took place in a warm, welcoming atmosphere, which allowed participants to speak openly about various aspects of church life.

Congresswoman Luna also expressed interest in attending the upcoming Paschal service, noting the importance of spiritual life for the local community. The diocesan account says she “expressed a desire to attend the Paschal service.”

At the conclusion of the meeting, members of the parish council presented the guest with commemorative gifts as a token of gratitude for her attention to the Orthodox community. As the parish noted, the visit became a sign of growing dialogue between the faithful and representatives of public authority. The official diocesan report confirms that parish council members gave her mementos at the end of the visit.

As the UOJ previously reported, Luna earlier said that Ukrainian officials involved in church seizures would be held accountable.

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