20th anniversary of Hegumen Athanasius (Kabriu) priestly service celebrated in Brussels

The Brussels diocese press service informs that on October 4, 2008 the 20^th anniversary of the priestly service of Hegumen Athanasius (Kabriu), rector of the first French-speaking Orthodox parish in Belgium (Brussels) dedicated to the Protecting Veil of the Mother of God was celebrated in Brussels.

On this day Father Athanasius celebrated the Divine Liturgy with the concelebration of the diocese secretary, priest Sergius Model and Deacon Alexander Motorny. Father Athanasius was congratulated by the rector of St. Nicholas Cathedral, Protopriest Anthony Ilyin, Father George Timmer, Protodeacon Alexander Kuryatkin as well as numerous parishioners and friends, not only Orthodox, but also Catholic and Protestant.

After speeches and wishes of longevity the parish organized a reception for all the guests.

Of French descent, Father Athanasius has lived in Brussels for many years. In 1980 he was ordained deacon by Archbishop Vasily (Krivoshein) and on October 2, 1988 Bishop Simon of Brussels and Belgium performed his first ordination since his arrival in Belgium by ordaining Deacon Athanasius into the priesthood. Since 1995 he is rector of the Protecting Veil of the Mother of God parish, the first French-speaking Orthodox community in Belgium. Hegumen Athanasius is also responsible for interchristian contacts and is member of the diocese council.