Patr. Kirill Consecrates Church Founded by Hieromartyr Fr. Daniel Sysoev

MOSCOW — A church envisioned by the late Hieromartyr Fr. Daniel Sysoev has been consecrated in southern Moscow, marking the completion of a project rooted in the missionary and educational work of the priest who founded the parish more than two decades ago.

On July 26, Patr. Kirill of Moscow and All Rus' celebrated the consecration of the Church of the Prophet Daniel and the Divine Liturgy in the newly completed temple. The Patriarch consecrated the central altar, blessed 20 antimensions, and was joined by bishops and clergy from throughout Moscow. During the service, Dn. Ioann Rubtsov, a cleric of the Church of the Prophet Elijah in Cherkizovo, was ordained to the priesthood.

The parish was founded in 2003 with Fr. Daniel Sysoev as its first rector. A temporary wooden church dedicated to the Apostle Thomas was completed in 2006, allowing the community to begin regular liturgical life. After Fr. Daniel was killed at the church in 2009, Fr. Ioann Popadinets succeeded him as rector and continued the effort to build the permanent temple, with construction beginning in 2016.

During the consecration, Fr. Ioann recalled Fr. Daniel's martyrdom and thanked Patr. Kirill for his support and consolation following the tragedy. He noted that the Patriarch had described Fr. Daniel as one who suffered for God's truth.

In his address, Patr. Kirill honored the witness of Russia's martyrs and confessors, saying that the current growth of church life and construction of new temples are fruits of their sacrifices. He warned the faithful against spiritual complacency and encouraged clergy to strengthen the faith of the people entrusted to them. The Patriarch presented the church with an icon of St. Luke of Crimea.

Previously, the UOJ reported that Abp. Nathaniel blessed a new parish center in Tennessee.