Three churches are planned to be built in the Vitebsk region, two of them in Vitebsk and one in Postavy. This was announced to journalists by Vitebsk Bishop Oleg Butkevich, as reported by a BELTA correspondent.
Three churches are planned to be built in the Vitebsk region, two of them in Vitebsk and one in Postavy. This was announced to journalists by Vitebsk Bishop Oleg Butkevich, as reported by a BELTA correspondent.
"Currently, there are plans for the construction of two churches in Vitebsk – the revival of St. Anthony's Church and the construction of a church in the new Vitebsk microdistrict of Bilevo. In Postavy, the Church of Jesus the Merciful will be built. This is a prospect for the next 2-4 years," said Oleg Butkevich.
The Vitebsk bishop dwelled particularly on the revival of St. Anthony's Church in the central part of Vitebsk (opposite the town hall). "This is an important and very responsible undertaking. Since a part of the site where the church was historically located is now a roadway, a zone for the possible placement of the shrine has been designated. Some design work has already been completed," explained Oleg Butkevich. "It is necessary to obtain permission from republican services and departments. And for this, among other things, we must guarantee the rapid construction of the church. We are currently working on finding funds for construction. This is the city centre, and construction cannot be prolonged here. So the main task is to find money for the revival of the shrine."
Journalists inquired about the bishop's impressions of his meeting with Pope Francis, during which the pontiff was presented with his book "The Name of God is Mercy" translated into Belarusian. "Every meeting with such a person leaves very vivid impressions and remains in memory for a long time," said Oleg Butkevich. "The last meeting took place not so long ago. Pope Francis was very pleased with the gift. He said that he was very glad that a translation of his book had appeared in Belarusian."
In addition, Oleg Butkevich announced that the tradition of organising live broadcasts of holiday services in churches will be continued this year. Thus, on December 24, the "Vitebsk" Radio and Television Company will broadcast live from the Holy Spirit Church. "So those people who cannot personally attend the solemn divine service will be able to watch it on television," emphasised the bishop.