MINSK, 23 September (BelTA) – Belarus is an example of good relations between the church and the state, Metropolitan of Minsk and Zaslavl Pavel, Patriarchal Exarch of All Belarus, told reporters, BelTA has learned.
“Belarus is an example to follow for many countries that want to build good relations between religious organizations and the secular government. Today we have an opportunity to openly practice our religion, go to church freely, pray, receive communion, follow Christ and do other things to become a better person,” Metropolitan of Minsk and Zaslavl Pavel said.
Bishop of Borisov and Maryina Gorka Veniamin emphasized that cooperation between the state and the church in Belarus is getting more efficient. “It creates a good environment for the further development of our society and its spiritual growth,” he said. The bishop added that the establishment of the Belarusian Exarchate is an important milestone in the history of Belarusian people.
The celebrations of the 30th anniversary of the Belarusian Exarchate will take place in Minsk upon the blessing of Patriarch of Moscow and All Russia Kirill on 28-29 September. Invitations were sent to the high-ranking clergy from Lithuania, Poland, Russia and Ukraine.
