The Eastern Archdeaconry Synod is being held in Bucharest this year, drawing clergy and lay readers from Vienna to Moscow, Athens and Ankara to connect and discuss their missions in an increasingly troubled part of the world.
The Synod is part of the decision-making structures of the Diocese and Bishop Robert was present at the meetings, meals and led in prayer sharing his mission with delegates.
The Synod was held at the Patriarchal Palace of the Romanian Orthodox Church, a sign of the good relations between the two Christian churches.
Bishop Robert, UK Ambassador Andrew Noble and Fthr. Nevsky Everett had an audience with Patriarch Daniel on Friday. Mr. Noble gave an optimistic yet realistic presentation of Romania on Friday to delegates, a week before he leaves his post.
There were prayers for the Israeli-Palestinian conflict which broke out a week ago and has left 3000 deaths from Palestine and Israel combined and more than 5,000 injured.
Chaplains and readers discussed a wide range of issues from environmental issues congregation numbers and racial injustice to the way worship is affected by the war in Ukraine.
Kiev and Moscow were both represented again this year, despite travel difficulties. They shared their news and stories.
Chaplains from countries bordering Ukraine including Romania discussed what they were doing to support Ukrainian refugees, aided by the Diocese’s funds.
In Bucharest, Father Nevsky Everett has been working this past year with Madeleine Cuckson and a team to provide aid to Ukrainian refugees.
There was also time dedicated to Bible Study and singing. Archdeacon Leslie led many of the discussions through the Synod which concluded Sunday with a Eucharist at the Church of the Resurrection.
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