On April 16, 2025, a press conference was held at the MIA 'Russia Today' dedicated to the upcoming celebration of Easter. Archpriest Mikhail Potokin spoke about the Church's assistance to those in need during this significant holiday, emphasizing the importance of sharing joy with others.
"In the celebration of Easter, we will share joy with everyone, including those affected in conflict zones and border areas," said Archpriest Potokin. He highlighted the dire situations many people face, stating that many have been left homeless and currently live in temporary accommodation or with relatives.
The Church is planning to distribute Easter gifts, cakes, and eggs through its assistance centers. These gifts will also reach remote villages where residents find it challenging to travel. Volunteers are set to visit elderly individuals and people with disabilities, bringing them food for the festive table and helping them prepare for Easter.
According to Potokin, during Holy Week, volunteer repair workers and social volunteers from the Synodal Department for Charity will be actively involved in restoring homes in Yasinovataya, Donetsk, and Mariupol. They will also provide humanitarian aid and support in hospitals and hospices.
In Moscow, festive lunches for the homeless will take place at the Flora and Lavra temples on Zatsepa and in the Salvation Angar. All guests are expected to receive Easter cakes and eggs to celebrate the occasion together.
"Now, we celebrate Easter and Christmas at the Flora and Lavra temple on Zatsepa with the homeless," Potokin noted. "It’s wonderful to have family and friends at home. However, there are people who do not have a home, and they have no one to share the Easter joy with. For them, we strive to organize these lunches. Our volunteers also enjoy this way of celebrating the holiday. It is essential for us as well."
Those interested in becoming a volunteer for the Easter lunch for the homeless at the Flora and Lavra temple can fill out an application form. More news and stories about the Church's social services can be found on the Telegram channel "Church Affairs" and in the groups of the Synodal Department on VK, OK, and the YouTube channel.
To aid refugees and affected civilians, individuals can visit helpinneed.rf. Support for the Church's social projects can also be made through the online platform of the Synodal Department for Charity "Let’s Help" at mirom.help. Regular donations or one-time contributions can be made to support the activities of the Synodal Department for Charity and various assistance initiatives at diaconia.ru.
