Christian Rock Band Skillet Tours Romanian Patriarchal Palace

Photo: Nicolae Iftimiu / X

BUCHAREST — Members of the American Christian rock band Skillet visited the Patriarchal Cathedral and Patriarchal Palace in Bucharest before their concert at Arenele Romane, according to officials from the Basilica News Agency.

The musicians, including Korey Cooper and Jen Ledger, along with their tour manager Devin, were welcomed by Basilica News Agency director Nicolae Iftimiu, who guided them through the historic complex and introduced them to the modern history of the Romanian Orthodox Church.

Iftimiu said the group showed particular interest in how the Romanian Church survived under communism, the Latin character of Romanian Orthodoxy, and historic church books and artifacts displayed within the Patriarchal Palace. 

"In less than an hour, they also met Bucharest’s Patron Saint, Demetrius the New, and paid their respects to the late Patriarchs of Romania buried inside the cathedral," he said.

Iftimiu later described the encounter as spiritually encouraging and praised the band members for their attentiveness and sincere interest throughout the visit.

"They kindly invited me to their concert, but I felt our meeting was something more personal and spiritually nourishing — so I’ll let the fans enjoy their performance," he concluded.

Previously, the UOJ reported that the Romanian Orthodox Episcopate launched a new website.

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