The Academy honored the memory of Apostle and Evangelist John the Theologian

The Moscow Theological Academy held festive services in honor of its patron saint Apostle and Evangelist John the Theologian.

On May 20, Archimandrite Platon (Igumnov) led an All-night vigil at the Intercession Academic Church co-served by teachers and students in the priesthood.

On May 21, the Bishop of Yugra and Nyagansk Photius celebrated the Divine Liturgy at the Intercession Church assisted by the academic clergy.

After singing the Sacramental verse, Sergey Zadikyan, a first-year Master's student, delivered a sermon:

«A sinner has two paths such as repentance and despair. Let’s take as an example Simon and Judas Iscariot, who were two closest disciples of the Savior. Let us ask ourselves the question: “Who were more sinful, Judas betraying Christ, or Simon, who did it three times?” The Juda’s sin is despair, which led him to suicide. What happened to the one who denied the Savior three times? Holy Tradition tells that Apostle Peter's eyes were always red of tears, because he had lamented his sin until the end of his days».

At the end of the service, Bishop Photius and the clergy sang the glorification to Apostle and Evangelist John the Theologian.

Background information: 

Chanting performed by a male choir under the conduct of V.V. Chuvilov and a mixed choir led by S.P. Borovinskaya.

MThA Press Office

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