Words from our Metropolitan

Metropolitan of the Slavic Orthodox Church in America

“With great pastoral joy, I bless and welcome the mission of the Patriarchal Athenaeum of São Marcos as a living work of the Holy Spirit within our Eparchy.

At a time when many hearts are turning away from the Truth and faith is suffering subtle and open attacks, our Athenaeum stands as a watchtower, as a lighthouse that guides those who seek the light of the eternal Gospel, in the footsteps of the holy Fathers and holy Tradition.

The formation offered here—rooted in prayer, obedience, orthodox doctrine, liturgical life, and faithful study of Scripture—is a gift for the entire Church. We do not simply form students: we form disciples, servants, and budding saints.

I thank Archpriest Semião, Presbytera Gi, the teachers, clergy and faithful who support this mission with fidelity and humility. I pray that the Patriarchal Athenaeum of São Marcos will increasingly be a school of the Kingdom, where the faithful are formed not only to know, but to serve, suffer and shine with Christ.

May Saint Mark, the courageous defender of orthodoxy, intercede for all. And may the light of the risen Christ shine upon every lesson, every word, every fruitful silence within this sacred house of formation.”

Dom Kyrillos
Metropolitan of the Slavic Orthodox Church in America