Archbishop Theofan of Korea gave lecture at School of Orthodox Missionary in Moscow

On February 2, at the School of the Orthodox Missionary at the Synodal Missionary Department, Archbishop Theofan of Korea gave a lecture “Mission in Tuva and Korea”.

Archbishop Theofan told the audience about the history of the Russian Ecclesiastical Mission in Korea in the XX c., which underwent various changes as a result of the changes in the political situation in the Russian Empire and dramatic events after the revolution of 1917. Vladyka also spoke about the waves of Korean immigrants who found themselves in modern Russia, about the process of returning ethnic Koreans to South Korea and the need for their pastoral care. He spoke about the resumption of missionary service, the mentality of Koreans and Tuvans, their way of life and religion, as well as the features of parish life in South Korea at the present time. The process of catechesis takes about a year, and at least 50 lectures are given before the sacrament of Baptism.

Archbishop Theofan also shared some inspiring stories of the churching of local residents and noted that in the mission, everything important is accomplished by the grace of the Lord, rather than by the efforts of missionaries. Fascinating stories about Koreans who sincerely accepted Orthodoxy and wholeheartedly strive to know the true God could hardly leave anyone indifferent. At the end of the meeting, Bishop Theofan answered the students’ questions and gave his archpastoral blessing.

Source: Orthodox Missionary School at the Synodal Missionary Department