Sergius Representation Church reopened in Jerusalem

The Sergius Representation Church (Podvoriye) in Jerusalem, returned to Russia nine years ago, was reopened on July 18, following the completion of its restoration, reports RIA-Novosti.

The Deputy Chairman of the Imperial Orthodox Palestinian Society (IOPS) Elena Agapova told the reporters that the Sergius Representation in Jerusalem was built at the end of the 19th century with funds from the IOPS and its founder Grand Duke Sergei Alexandrovich Romanov. It was entrusted with the management of all representation churches, schools, and hospitals in Syria and Palestine.

The date for reopening the Sergius Representation Church after its restoration was not accidental, the IOPS notes. “The Russian Orthodox Church venerates the memory of St. Sergius of Radonezh today—the heavenly patron of Grand Duke Sergei Alexandrovich, the first chairman of the IOPS. July 18 is also the commemoration day of (his wife) Grand Duchess Elizabeth Feodorovna, martyred 99 years ago,” explained the ceremony organizers.

Israeli authorities re-registered the Sergius Representation Church as a property of the Russian Federation in December 2008.