“What is the story behind this church?” someone asks. Today we explore the history and significance of the \u0445\u0440\u0430\u043c \u041c\u0430\u0442-\u041c\u0430\u0440\u044c\u044f\u043c in Moscow. This is not just another church. It is a vibrant center for the Assyrian community.
\u0425\u0440\u0430\u043c \u041c\u0430\u0442 \u041c\u0430\u0440\u044c\u044f\u043c also known as the Church of the Holy Virgin Mary. It belongs to the Assyrian Church of the East. This church serves as a spiritual anchor for Assyrians. They come from Northern Iraq and other countries of the Commonwealth of Independent States.
The story of this church begins in August 1992. An initiative group organized a visit to Russia. They invited an Assyrian Church of the East bishop. This visit marked a turning point. It highlighted the need for a dedicated place of worship.
The church’s foundation stone was laid on May 13, 1996. The location was Sharikopodshipnikovskaya Street 16. Metropolitan Mar Gewargis Sliva of Baghdad performed the ceremony. This event was a significant step forward for the community.
Construction took place from 1996 to 1998. A Pavlosky served as the architect. During construction, the Moscow Patriarchate allowed Assyrians to hold services. They used premises in one of the cross churches. These churches were near the Vagankovo cemetery.
The consecration of the \u0445\u0440\u0430\u043c \u041c\u0430\u0442 \u041c\u0430\u0440\u044c\u044f\u043c occurred on September 27, 1998. Patriarch of the Assyrian Church of the East Mar Dinkha IV officiated the event. In 1999 the first rector was appointed. The Patriarch appointed him to the Diocese of Northern Iraq and the CIS countries.
Today Father Samano is in charge. He works hard to attract young people to the church. A Sunday school operates at the church. Here children can learn the Assyrian language. The school helps preserve their cultural heritage.
Regular meetings, lectures, and round tables take place here. These events cover national themes. They help to keep the community connected.
The church supports a trapeza. Here one can enjoy tasty and inexpensive food.
\u0425\u0440\u0430\u043c \u041c\u0430\u0442 \u041c\u0430\u0440\u044c\u044f\u043c stands as a testament. It shows the resilience and dedication of the Assyrian community in Moscow. It is not only a religious center. It preserves culture. It promotes unity. It offers support. It welcomes people. It is a unique and integral part of Moscow’s diverse religious landscape.