Latest news with #Ostrovsky
Business Insider
26-04-2025
- Politics
- Business Insider
Africa's spiritual link with Russia seems to be transforming into a real topic
There is no denying Russia's expanding ties in Africa, particularly in the areas of trade and military cooperation. However, in the past few months, the spiritual relationship between both parties has been discussed more than once. Russian Orthodox Church priests from Africa emphasized the growing spiritual ties between Africa and Russia. The priests mentioned that more Africans are showing interest in Orthodoxy and noted the hospitality and warmth they felt in Russia. The spiritual connection may lead to increased collaboration between Russia and Africa in various areas. In a recent turn of events, several African priests of the Russian Orthodox Church spoke on the subject of spirituality between Africa and Russia, asserting that "Russia is a new spiritual heart of Christianity.' The priests who relayed their sentiments to Sputnik are currently in the Euroasian country for spiritual training. Metropolitan Konstantin (Ostrovsky), the leader of the Russian Orthodox Church's African Exarchate, invited the priests to come to Russia, where they shared their insights. What the African priests said "With time, more and more Africans are taking an interest in Orthodoxy. In the past, we only followed Orthodoxy in form, not in substance," a priest from Cameroon, Hermogene Eloundou, stated. "Before coming to Russia, the image we had of the country, shaped by the media and all that, was completely false. That image collapsed once we arrived. In reality, we encountered a strong people, a courageous people, an honest and faithful people. A people who actually make you want to be Christian," Nicolas N'cho from Cote d'Ivoire stated. "The people are kind and hospitable. Everywhere we've gone, we've felt that warmth—that humanity. We were received with open arms, and we truly feel at home here," Angolan priest, Seraphin Lumanadio, also highlighted. This burgeoning spiritual connection might also serve as a foundation for more extensive collaboration between Russia and Africa. As Orthodox Christianity spreads throughout African countries, the impact of Russian clergy, customs, and theological teachings may develop in line with economic and geopolitical cooperation. The growing religious relationship is not one-way. In December 2024, at the VTB Russia Calling! Investment Forum in Moscow, President Vladimir Putin explicitly recognized this spiritual affinity. Putin's comment on Russia's spiritual link with Africa The Russian president stated that he feels there is a spiritual link between Russia and Africa, indicating the Kremlin's support for the growing religious alliance. "Africa may geographically seem like a rather distant continent, but it is spiritually close to us," the Russian head of state relayed.
Yahoo
23-02-2025
- Entertainment
- Yahoo
Traditional Ukrainian bake sale to benefit traveling, delivering essential aid overseas
JOHNSON CITY, Tenn. (WJHL) – Food and music are significant parts of Ukrainian culture. On Saturday, both were used to raise money and show support as the war in Ukraine approaches the three-year mark. Our Savior Lutheran Church hosted a bake sale that featured traditional Ukrainian baked goods and desserts. Proceeds from the bake sale will benefit Knoxville-based non-profit KoloHUB, a Tennessee nonprofit whose leaders regularly travel to Ukraine to meet and deliver essential aid to Ukrainians in need. 'I think it's easy to not care because it's far away,' Nelly Ostrovsky, a Kyiv native who has lived in Johnson City for over 30 years, said. 'But I think those people who possess a capacity for deep, empathetic feelings, I do not think they can forget.' Weapon demos and reenactments at 'State of Franklin Battle' Rita Gregory, a native Ukrainian who has lived in Johnson City since 2012, hosted the bake sale using food to bring a bit of joy to the community. 'We gather together just [to] spread a little bit of love with all people who are really supportive and say, 'Thank you,'' Gregory said. 'Through our [love language] that is food and traditions as well. Johnson City resident Carrie Feathers felt called to support those in need by connecting with her daughter's friend. 'When I found out my daughter's best friend was Ukrainian, I got to know Rita and the family,' said Feathers. 'It just really sent home that there are hurting people all over this world. And to support them in any way we can and just to show our love constantly is the most important thing that we can do.' A benefit concert titled 'Voices of Hope: A Concert For Peace' brought Ukrainian music to the city. Ostrovsky said she hopes the concert shows that support is also needed within her local community. 'I just want people to remember there are still people among us,' said Ostrovsky. 'We [had] some Ukrainian students here performing today that still need help, still need support, still need care.' Proceeds from the concert will benefit the Johnson City-based nonprofit Vols for Ukraine. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.
