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PRESS RELEASE Immediate Release

Russian Orthodox Church in London and Great Britain – Court Decision

Mr. Justice Blackburne's decision puts an end to a long-running controversy regarding the use and benefit of the Russian Orthodox Church's assets in the United Kingdom, including in particular the London Cathedral. His judgment confirms that the Church should continue to have the benefit and use of such assets, including the London Cathedral. The judgment also recognises that the Church is a thriving community, that it has in recent years enjoyed a substantial increase in membership and that it continues to pursue what the judge described as a "vigorous programme of activities".

In speaking about the judgment, Bishop Elisey of Sourozh said that, "We welcome this judgment, which recognises the vigorous life of the Diocese and the London Parish and the importance of its work. The Russian Orthodox Church in the United Kingdom remains true to its original vision and purpose, which is to minister to all adherents to the Russian Orthodox tradition, of whatever nationality or background. We give thanks that this judgment will now allow the Church to devote all of its energies and all of its resources to such vision and purpose."

The cathedral will hold its usual daily services at which all the faithful are very welcome to attend.

For the full details of the judgment follow the link below to the British and Irish Legal Information Institute:

http://www.bailii.org/ew/cases/EWHC/Ch/2009/1250.html

BACKGROUND INFORMATION

Churches and Jurisdictions involved in the dispute

The Churches involved in the dispute – Moscow Patriarchate

The Russian Orthodox Church in London, Cathedral of the Dormition and All Saints – Ennismore Gardens, London

The Russian Orthodox Diocese of Sourozh of the Moscow Patriarchate

The Churches involved in the dispute – Ecumenical Patriarchate

Ecumenical Parish of the Dormition of the Mother of God – High Holborn, London

Episcopal Vicariate of Great Britain and Ireland

Contacts for Further Information

Russian Orthodox Church in London

Adrian Dean on 0788 7700507