Lord Irinei. His Eminence Irinei (tafunya), Bishop of Orsk and Gai. So that punishment is for the good

Bishop of Orsk and Gai Irenaeus (Tafunya) born in the Moldovan village of Varvarovka on May 30, 1971. From 1991 to 1992 he was a novice at the Novo-Nyametsky Monastery, where he subsequently took monastic vows.

In 1992 - 1998 he studied at the Moscow Theological Seminary and Academy, and since 1996 he has been obedient to the assistant dean. He graduated from the academy in absentia, since in 1998 he was sent as a teacher to the Chisinau Theological Seminary. He taught at various secular and religious educational institutions in Moldova. He bore the obedience of the secretary of the Moldavian Metropolis.

Since 2004 - official representative of the Moldavian Metropolis in Moscow. He served in the Novospassky Monastery and headed a Sunday school.

On October 5, 2011, by the decision of the Holy Synod of the Russian Orthodox Church, he was elected, and on November 22, he was consecrated Bishop of Orsk and Gai.

The difficult path of Moldovan believers

–Vladyka, your Russian language is very good, although you are originally from Moldova. Is your family bilingual?

– I only learned Russian at school and when I entered the seminary, I knew it, but not very well. At first, it even happened that I quickly answered in Moldavian, so that the teacher understood that I knew the material, and then translated.

I liked studying. Thank God, I graduated from seminary well. I passed some exams without preparation. I’m glad that I wasn’t the only one who often passed exams without preparation. So, among the guys I had one strong opponent, for whom Russian was also not his native language. Now he is already a priest in Ossetia, secretary of the Vladikavkaz diocese - Savva Gagloev.

– You grew up in a believing family. Have you had a passion for service since childhood?

– The answer to your question will be rather not words, but deeds - every year, by God’s grace, I perform more than two hundred liturgies, I serve almost daily. This demonstrates that worship for me is not a heavy duty, but a true joy. This is the basis of all my activities, its center, everything I do is built around the divine liturgy.

The desire to become a priest was always there. But I grew up at a time when priestly service—let's face it—was truly dangerous. And there were doubts whether I could withstand the difficulties that many shepherds experienced.

Personal example means a lot. So, we had a relative, already an elderly man, a former abbot of the monastery. After the closure, he lived in our village, with my relatives. The priest’s life aroused admiration. He never insisted on anything, especially regarding the spiritual path of man; he did not force us to pray, but suggested, always referring to the patristic heritage: “This is how the fathers taught us.” Through him the amazing spirit of church and monastic life was transmitted to all of us. Of course, already at that time I began to think about monasticism, but I saw how many trials this man had to endure, and I did not decide right away.

In addition, I remember the example of my own father, who already in the eighties tried to open a temple in our village. Later, already working in the archives in Moscow, I found documentary evidence of this. Naturally, some people did not like his desire to resume spiritual life in the village... He had problems at work... In general, it was not easy for us. But the Lord calls us all to follow the narrow path - only it is saving.

“Moldova lived in the past”

In Moldova, the religious issue was very tough until the very end of the eighties. It's better to explain with examples. At that time, Metropolitan Serapion arrived in Moldova, but the bishop was not greeted with the ringing of bells, as required by the Charter (at that time ringing of bells was prohibited in Moldova). The archpastor was surprised and blessed him to find a bell ringer so that the Rule would be observed for the first time on Sunday, when he was to perform the Divine Liturgy on Moldavian soil for the first time.

With great difficulty, the blessing was fulfilled: they found one Old Believer who knew how to ring. The Metropolitan was greeted with the ringing of bells, which happened for the first time in many years. After the service, the bishop went to the bishop's house, and very soon the phone rang. The Commissioner for Religious Affairs called. He demanded in rage:

- So, give me Fadeev!

- But we don’t have that...

- Why not? Just arrived!

- New ruler?

- For you he is the ruler, but for me he is Comrade Fadeev! Faster! – the commissioner began to shout.

Vladyka picked up the phone and calmly answered:

- Sorry, but a normal person and a competent official first introduces himself, and does not shout, like you. I can't communicate with you now, call me later. I can see you on Monday or Tuesday.

Moldovan officials simply did not understand that a different era had already arrived in Moscow in relations between the state and the Church. In Moldova, at that time, anti-religious literature was still being published - the largest circulation was in the mid-eighties. Moldova lived in the past...

I will give an example from my life. Once, in the fourth or fifth grade, a pioneer leader hit me in the face because I didn’t have a tie (in Moldovan villages such “educational techniques” were commonplace at that time). My dad found out about this by chance and asked me and my friends if we were being beaten at school. I replied that I was a good student and they didn’t teach me that way, but by chance my friend couldn’t resist and asked: “What about the Pioneer leader?”

I had to say that this happened, but not because of school... Dad listened, but didn’t say anything. And the next day I came to the school director. After some time they called me too. I look: the director and dad. I was a little scared - I thought I must have done something, but I can’t remember what. The director asked if I had really been hit. I had to confess. We went to class, the director asked the guys, who confirmed...

Of course, seeing such distrust and disdain for believers, I was afraid to even dream about the priesthood. But I still wanted to. I decided this: if God willing, I will become a teacher. Only after the army, when the situation in the country as a whole changed, in 1991, did I finally decide that I would become a priest and monk.

– How did the army treat a young believer?

“Nobody knew that I was a believer.” I had a cross sewn in my pocket, I prayed silently from memory, but did not speak out loud about faith.

Only two or three months before leaving the army, I received a parcel containing icons, crosses... They saw it. But, thank God, they treated me well. I distributed crosses and icons to my colleagues. It was already 1991, attitudes towards the Church had changed, and society was talking a lot about faith.

Orthodox way of life

–Let's return to the family experience. Did you follow church traditions?

– Yes, in our family everything was observed quite strictly. But there were many such families. We received communion once every two to three months, but preparation for communion (fasting) took not three days, but a week. And when I saw in Moscow that people fasted for only three days before communion, I was surprised.

We kept Lent strictly - during Holy Week our family cooked food without oil. I remember baking pancakes on the stove, adding jam or nuts and that’s it.

Almost every day, morning and evening, the whole family gathered for common prayer.

I remember that if one of the neighbors or parents I knew was sick, they would come to our house and ask me or one of the other children to read the Psalter for them. It was believed that children’s prayer would make a person feel better, because children are pure and pleasing to God.

Our parents often took us on pilgrimages. I don’t even know where they found the money for the trips. At that time, there was one monastery in Moldova in the Kamensky region - Zhabsky, and we often visited there. Sometimes we went to the Pochaev Lavra.

At that time I was still too young to understand the meaning of the pilgrimage, but it was interesting, and to a large extent leaving the village was considered something “prestigious”. Particularly memorable, of course, is the first visit to the Trinity-Sergius Lavra. After all, in holy baptism I was named Sergius. I was about fourteen years old when I first saw Lavra...

From Moldova to Moscow

On the path of life, the Lord granted many significant meetings with wonderful people, to whom I owe a lot. At the Lavra we were received by the future Bishop of Bendery, and now by Metropolitan Vikenty of Tashkent, then a simple priest. When I returned from the army, he had already become a bishop. I was also acquainted with the future Bishop of Edinet and Brice Dorimedont, then a resident of the Lavra of St. Sergius. It is to these people that I owe my admission to the Novo-Nyametsky Monastery, and later my direction to study at Moscow theological schools.

– You took monastic vows in Moldova, in your last year at the Moscow Academy you switched to external studies and returned to work in your homeland... Wasn’t it a pity to leave Moldova a few years later and return to Moscow?

– It’s difficult to leave any place where you’ve worked for a long time. You just need to ask yourself the question: “Why am I taking this or that step?” and give an honest answer to it. It was clear to me that then I had to leave Moldova and come to Russia. And besides everything else, there is such a thing as necessity. This was my obedience - for monasticism it is not discussed.

Metropolitan Vladimir of Moldova informed me about this appointment in May, but I went only in December. Then he taught at the University of Tiraspol - it was difficult to part with what he loved. At first, after moving to Moscow, I often came to Tiraspol to teach the prescribed course. I’m surprised how Metropolitan Vladimir tolerated me at all.

Why does a migrant worker need a priest?

– In Moscow, you cared for the Moldovan diaspora. What difficulties do people who come to work in the capital face? What did you have to help with?

– There are two main difficulties: work and housing. Some come to a prepared place, while others hope to get settled “somehow.” It happened that those who had already got a job had their salaries delayed. But you have to live somehow. People came and asked for help. Someone lost documents and asked for help in restoring them. And someone needed help in learning the Russian language.

At any meeting, I said: in order to become one of the people on whose land you now live, you need to know their language, literature, culture, history of the country and city. Where you live and work, you must comply with social norms and legislation and not commit crimes. And you need to draw strength to fight temptations in church, at confession and through communion.

Very soon I noticed that it was easier for people who came to the temple to find work and housing. The parishioners of the Novospassky Monastery knew many people from Moldova, respected them and helped them as best they could. So I am grateful to the Novospassky Monastery for the fact that it became a bridge between Russia and Moldova, a meeting place where my compatriots found the closeness of God and, by His grace, were not deprived of the support of their neighbors - the most pressing and seemingly insoluble problems were resolved.

Bishop's calling

–By the way, how did you react to your appointment as bishop?

“I felt that someday this moment would come.” It came when Metropolitan Vincent invited His Holiness Patriarch Kirill of Moscow and All Rus' to consider my candidacy for the newly formed Tajikistan see. And I was already preparing, trying to establish connections with the diaspora and the Embassy of Tajikistan. But on the eve of the meeting of the Holy Synod, His Holiness the Patriarch called me and after a conversation he said that the appointment to Tajikistan was canceled and that the Urals seemed to him a more suitable place of service for me. At first I thought: maybe a mistake? But no.

I didn’t think that I would become a bishop in Russia, but I had almost no doubt that I most likely would. And many people who knew me thought so. At the seminary and academy, some teachers even half-jokingly and half-seriously said: “You are from Moldova, you should be asked more strictly, you are a future bishop.”

– Was this only noticeable in you? Or are other future bishops also catching your eye?

“Everyone with whom I studied and whom I thought would become bishops became one. Metropolitan Anthony of Borispol, Bishop Ambrose of Peterhof, Bishop Roman of Yakutsk, Bishop Tikhon of Podolsk...

The Bishop is a man who burns

– I think that Bishop Eugene, the rector of the Academy, long ago determined for himself who would become who. Active people who will not stand still are always visible. Bishops should be people who shine, stand out, and are in the center of attention.

For a bishop, it is important to be able to gather people around him, to listen to everyone, to try to help, to resolve this or that issue, to give feasible instructions, to check whether he is coping, to support... You need to be able to share both pain and joy, to delve into a variety of events.

– Hierarchal service takes a lot of energy on various formal issues–papers, control... Do you have time for yourself? At least read a book?

– Of course, I am not only a bishop, but also a teacher at the Orsk Humanitarian-Technological Institute and the Orenburg Seminary. You have to read a lot.

Why do they cooperate with the diocese?

– Do you manage to cooperate with government agencies?

- Thank God, everything is fine. Everything here is simple and quite complicated at the same time: if you work, and your work is noticeable and brings good results, then anyone will be interested in cooperating with you and having friendly relations.

I am glad that in our diocese the relations between state authorities, society and the Church are of a friendly nature. The fruits of this friendship are very significant for many, especially those who need help. Thus, since the end of 2012, we, together with the administration of Orsk, have been providing food to more than a hundred homeless people every day. And starting this year, a similar service has been organized in another city of the diocese.

However, it is important for me to work together not only with government agencies and officials, but most of all with the clergy of the diocese. For example, gifts were repeatedly purchased using general donations from clergy and monetary incentives were given to large families, mothers who gave birth to twins this year, and couples celebrating their wedding anniversary - 50, 40, 30 or 25 years of marriage.

At the Orsk Institute of Humanities and Technology, where I teach, as well as at the Gai Medical College, several of the best students were awarded a bishop's scholarship.

This is not the first time we have held educational Cyril and Methodius readings at the Orsky Institute. Dozens of students take part in them, and honorary prizes and financial prizes are also awarded for the best reports.

In schools, after many meetings with directors and teachers, priests were allowed to participate in parent meetings and answer questions.

Of course, after all this they want to work with us. By the way, in our city the number of crimes has dropped by twenty percent compared to 2011!

– Are you also working with prisons?

– Yes, there are priests who carry this cross. I myself try to visit such places. I have been familiar with this ministry since my studies at the seminary and academy, when I gave lectures in the Sergiev Posad pre-trial detention center. Later in Moldova he was rector of a prison church. Low bow to those who work there.

– There are many Muslims on the territory of the Orsk diocese. What kind of relationship did you have?

- Calm. A priest and a representative of traditional Islam are invited to all city events. We already have priests who know or are studying Tajik, Kazakh or Tatar languages.

I am glad that young people are drawn to faith. There are many children studying at our institute, ethnic Muslims, who treat Orthodoxy with due respect and deep interest.

Children and teaching

– I see you have a wide range of activities. Out of what you do, do you have a favorite thing?

– In general, I love teaching and working with young people. In our diocese, working with young people is a top priority. Numerous events are held: educational, gaming, sports. Summer and winter camps for children and youth are organized, and the Orthodox Center for Children and Youth at the Cathedral of the Holy Great Martyr George the Victorious is successfully operating. And this is not all that we try to do for our youth.

For example, here is a serious problem: in one village, an eleven-year school is being transformed into a secondary school based on nine classes, since there is no possibility of funding. I invited the school director, teachers, parents and tenth graders, of whom there are only four, to move into my house from September 1, live and study in our Orthodox gymnasium, located nearby. On this occasion, I met with the administration of the district and village. We are waiting for a decision on this issue.

– Does your house allow you to accommodate several more people?

- I have four rooms. I'm thinking of giving them to the kids and the parents of one of them. And if it’s crowded, I’ll move somewhere else.

Relationships with priests: mutual trust

– A mundane question: how does your diocese live?

– Mainly from donations from parishes. During the holiday season, contributions are usually lower than at other times. Priests also need rest.

– Do you have any relationship with the clergy at all?

– Very good relationship. Many priests come to me for confession, although we have a confessor in our diocese. If they come to me, confess and tell me about their problems in the parish and in the family, then this says a lot! This means they trust me and I trust them. I myself go to confession to our priests without embarrassment.

If the priest, for example, needs to travel from Orsk to Orenburg or Moscow and has nowhere to stay, he can come to my house and spend the night. If you have a piece of bread, I’ll give it to you.

At one time, as a hieromonk, he communicated with bishops without fear. This is Bishop Eugene of Verei, Bishop Vikenty of Bendery, Doromedont of Edinet, Vladimir of Chisinau and many others. And now, having become a bishop, I try to treat people the same way they treat me. The selfless work of the priesthood is worthy of sincere gratitude. Thanks to them, our diocese exists, because the priest and the congregation constitute a parish, and not a church building. Can I offend them?

So that punishment is for the good

– In what cases should you be strict with a priest?–maybe even ban him from serving?

“Sometimes you have to take strict measures. On rare occasions, our disciplinary commission took strict measures against some priests. One was banned because he did not want to remember Patriarch Kirill during the service and did not want to see his father in him. In another case, the reason for severe punishment was addiction to alcohol. They banned him for a short period of time: a month, two, three... It all depends on the person himself: if he repents and becomes better, we reduce the sentence.

When making any decision, everyone must put themselves in the shoes of the person they are going to punish. You must understand his pain and sorrow, help him become a better person, even if taking strict measures. After all, the Lord Himself denounced not only with words... Remember the incident in the Temple of Jerusalem, when He zealously defended the purity of the House of God.

For punishment to be beneficial, a person must understand: yes, I deserve it. If I had behaved differently, everything would have been different. And we need to come to this. Together with the person who has stumbled.

The Church does not forget

– Do you maintain contact with the families of the clergy? At the last Council of Bishops, His Holiness offered to provide assistance to the families of priests who were left without a breadwinner. How are things going with this in the Orsk diocese?

– This decision at the church-wide level was made by the Council of Bishops in 2013, but a similar practice has existed in our diocese since 2012. Every month we pay widowed mothers five thousand rubles. They are grateful to us - for Orsk this is not such small money. And, of course, food and gifts for the holidays.

I think that we need to pay attention not only to mothers and clergy. It is important to unite people so that they help those believers who were once active parishioners, but now do not have the strength to get to the temple. We must show them that we love them, appreciate them, and do not forget them.

We must be aware of what believers and every weak person need. You should find out this, first of all, from the parish clergy, because our priests administer communion and unction at home. It would be good to gather several people on the eve of the holidays and come to the weak, help them in any way possible: clean the house or prepare something for them for the holiday. And on the holiday itself, of course, congratulations.

“How can you not communicate with people?!”

I emphasize once again: this applies not only to clergy who are retired and do not have the strength to serve, and widowed mothers, but also to all believers who were, but due to circumstances have ceased to be, active parishioners. There is a lot of talk about community these days. How else can we unite people, if not through helping each other?

– Do you also communicate with the laity? Does the bishop need this?

- Of course. Let's start with the fact that these people maintain the temple, sometimes paying the last penny. Why on earth would you offend them?

How can you not communicate with people? I just don't understand this! If you are a bishop, they will definitely come to you with their questions. Lectures, meetings, sermons, meals after the service - and everywhere they ask, and you answer and console! This is a significant part of the entire bishop’s ministry. You should be with them.

As long as everything is possible...

– Is there anything in your ministry that you are afraid about?

“I’m afraid that a moment may come when I’ll be forced to honestly admit: I can’t do it.” Either there is not enough knowledge, or opportunities, or the authorities do not allow it. For now we can do a lot. Everyone is watching how things are in Moscow, everyone is following the example of the capital. But you also need to be prepared for the fact that the moment will come when they will say: “You can’t come here.” As long as I have the opportunity, I will work. They let you go to school - good. They allow me to teach at the institute - wonderful. Chatting with people at the stadium is great. Going out to the hockey rink between periods and answering questions is great!

When relatives cry...

– What about your relatives? Do you keep in touch with them?

- Well, of course, I love mom and dad, I call and communicate with them! True, they cannot come to me - they are too far away.

– How did they cope with breaking up with you from the very beginning?–departure to Moscow, and then monasticism?

– I think that they were ready for my choice, especially after I was sent to study at the Moscow Theological Seminary.

I remember that before taking monastic vows, I wrote a poem in Moldavian, the essence of which boiled down to approximately the following: “I was your son, but after monastic vows I will become the son of the Queen of Heaven. I thank you for your love, constant care, selfless work and example of true Christian life, but now I am no longer yours...” Years later, I found this poem from my parents - I even cried while reading it. Then I thought that this shouldn’t continue... the poem was in a prominent place and, as it was clear, my parents read it every day... I took the piece of paper and threw it into the stove.

My parents are deeply religious people. They were happy with my choice, but it was impossible not to cry. They mourned and cried.

– Thank you for the conversation!

- And thank you for your attention.

Photo by the press service of the Orsk diocese

The pagan Romans quite reasonably believed that if a person insulted God, then this does not apply to anyone except the one who insulted God Himself, said Bishop of Orsk and Gai of the Russian Orthodox Church MP Iriney, speaking with a dokdad “Freedom of speech and insulting the feelings of believers” at the XI zonal Sretensky educational readings on February 17 in Kuvandyk, reports the correspondent of “Portal-Credo.Ru”.

Bishop Irenaeus based his speech on the events of early January 2015, when twelve people were killed in Paris as a sign of revenge for the cartoons of Muhammad in the Charlie Hebdo magazine.

Condemning violence and murder as a means of combating blasphemy, the hierarch of the Russian Orthodox Church MP noted that “the reaction of some Orthodox Christians to these events showed that their thoughts are little different from the ideology of Muslim radicals, in their depth, in essence, being one and the same. This is just the difference between rapists.”

“Unfortunately, among the Orthodox there are those who approve of such actions towards those who committed blasphemy. “Some are hardly ready to participate in such acts and already think of themselves as executioners, forgetting that those who kill the body have already killed their soul, kill the souls of those who approve of their lawlessness, and deprive the souls of their victims of the opportunity to repent,” he said.

Bishop Irenaeus also emphasized that justifying the murders committed by religious fanatics and sympathizing with them as insulted victims will not only not stop them, but on the contrary will give them a reason for a stream of new aggressive actions and demands.

“By justifying the murder, no one will be able to stop the flow of subsequent all-out Muslim attacks and demands. Radicalists are offended by everything that does not comply with Sharia norms, including the Cross. By their actions they proved that the feeling of proportionality to their “sacred anger” is unknown. A few days later, when the world was mourning the victims, significant incidents occurred in one of the French schools: some of the students refused to observe a minute of silence, chatted, and said terrible things. Obviously, children heard this from their parents. Heated discussions split the teenage community: some were horrified by the terrorist attacks, calling them barbarism, others declared that they would not allow “anyone to insult the prophet” and would take revenge on everyone in the future if this happened again,” said the Bishop of Orsk.

The Gospel, Bishop Irenaeus recalled, calls not for revenge on enemies, but for prayer for them, while one’s own emotions must be restrained so as not to become like blasphemers.

“Undoubtedly, blasphemous attacks such as cartoons hurt the feelings of many, this is a deep offense. But one’s own emotions must also be restrained so as not to become like the blasphemers and to prevent the increase of lawlessness. If we talk about love for our neighbor, but we ourselves do not tolerate his inappropriate behavior, as we are called to do - with love and prayer for him - then we become like those scribes and Pharisees whom the Lord Himself denounced,” explained the Orthodox hierarch.

Christians, Bishop Irenaeus believes, must be very selective in the methods of polemics with their opponents; they cannot use the means of struggle that the pagans resorted to, they cannot act with prohibitions and threats.

“Criticism that does not take into account any arguments of the opponent... is the heritage of the pagan world. ...Are we really going to accept these extremes? Undoubtedly, extremes are unacceptable on both sides. The ban on images will soon turn into a ban on words. In this case, a person, criticizing sectarian views and customs, will not have the moral right to demand a ban on similar behavior in relation to his faith - and this can lead to the most negative consequences for society as a whole.”

Intolerant believers give rise to intolerance towards themselves on the part of non-believers, who, using the same logic of “offended feelings,” can make any public manifestation of faith a reason for litigation. Some atheists express dissatisfaction with the fact that Russian legislation speaks of insulting religious feelings, but does not protect the feelings of non-believers, the Orthodox hierarch recalled.

“It would be easy to publicly declare that ‘having seen a clergyman on the street, I lost all pleasure from walking’... – and such statements will become the basis for legal proceedings and accusations,” added Bishop Irenaeus.

On Sunday, Bishop Irinei (Tafunya), Bishop of Orsk and Gai, comes to his permanent place of ministry in Orsk. His meeting will take place at 9 o'clock in the morning at the Intercession Church (former monastery).

As OH has already reported, an unprecedented event occurred in the spiritual life of our region: by decision of the Holy Synod, the Orenburg diocese was divided into Orsk, Buzuluk and Orenburg. And the other day, His Holiness Patriarch Kirill performed the Divine Liturgy at the Intercession Monastery in Moscow and led the consecration of Archimandrite Irenaeus (Tafuni) as bishop.

A delegation from the eastern Orenburg region, headed by Archpriest Sergiy Baranov, dean of the Orsk district, took part in the celebration. It included the first deputy head of the administration of our city V. Kozupitsa, the general director of ONOS V. Pilyugin, heads of nearby cities and districts, entrepreneurs, clergy, representatives of the press - a total of 25 people.

Even the patriarch himself marveled at the activity of the Orchans and noted that such a large and representative delegation had never come from other cities to such celebrations.

The day of the ordination coincided with a major anniversary. Moscow celebrated the 130th anniversary of the birth of the holy and righteous blessed Matrona of Moscow. And therefore, already at 7 o’clock in the morning, thousands of believers filled the territory of the Intercession Monastery, where the relics of Matrona are located.

We are met by a representative of Bishop Irenaeus, and a huge line moves apart, allowing the Orsk delegation to pass.

In the Intercession Cathedral of the monastery we venerate the holy relics and go to the Church of the Resurrection of the Word. There is no room for the apple to fall here. But the laity from Orsk are taken to the most convenient place for viewing the ceremony, and all our priests are allowed to serve, which is a great honor.

The Divine Liturgy is underway. Those who did not find themselves in a crowded church have the opportunity to watch the broadcast of the service on large screens installed on the monastery square. Presence at the Patriarchal service is unlikely to leave anyone indifferent. Spiritual delight, great joy, and the grace of God overwhelm the hearts of believers.

Among the many famous archpastors of Russia, Archimandrite Iriney appears to our eyes - a resident of the Novospassky Monastery in Moscow. One of the most solemn moments is coming. The High Hierarch addresses Bishop Irenaeus with a parting word, reminding him that archpastoral service is primarily a service of love, and hands him the bishop's staff.

Take this rod,” says the patriarch, “and, leaning on it, walk unfailingly along the narrow and thorny path of love and sacrificial service, determined by the Hero of our salvation, the path along which many of your predecessors walked. Now, from the fullness of the gifts sent down to you, give a blessing to the people of God, who together with us sincerely prayed that the Lord would help you to be a worthy successor to the apostles and holy fathers...

At the end of the liturgy, a solemn reception begins at the Pokrovsky Monastery. Among the speakers is the first deputy head of Orsk Kozupitsa. He addresses the Primate:

The administration of Orsk and the Orthodox community express their deep gratitude to you for the decision to form the Orsk and Gai diocese and appoint Bishop Irenaeus as its head. We hope that this will open new horizons in solving general social problems, educating the population of the city and eastern Orenburg region in the spirit of respect for religious traditions, and will also help strengthen interethnic and interfaith harmony. All this will serve as the basis for better and more effective interaction between the authorities and the Russian Orthodox Church. Thank you for the invitation to such an important event for Orsk and the entire eastern Orenburg region. And we congratulate Bishop Irenaeus on his appointment to this responsible post. I am confident that his rich experience will be aimed at strengthening the morality, spirituality and unity of the inhabitants of our region.

Kozupitsa and Pilyugin present the patriarch and our ruler with souvenirs made of Orsk jasper. And the abbess of the Intercession Monastery, Abbess Feofania, is thrown an Orenburg down scarf over her shoulders. Everyone present at the celebration sings “Long Summer...”.

At the end of the reception, His Holiness the Patriarch presented church awards to the benefactors of the Intercession Monastery, thanked Bishop Irenei, who led the work of the Sunday school of the Novospassky Monastery, where he served, and was responsible for youth affairs in this monastery.

We were all very touched by the kind, attentive attitude towards the Orsk delegation. This celebration united everyone so much. Having been inside this church life, the leaders probably became closer to the church. They saw her from the other side. I think their attitude towards the church has changed.

And, of course, in such a warm welcome one could feel the care and participation of our bishop. He organized everything, watched over everything, so that all days we would not be left without the attention of his assistants. It was easy to communicate with him. Despite the fact that he is still a bishop.

V. Bazilevsky.

On November 22, on the feast of the icon of the Mother of God, called “Quick to Hear,” and the name day of the holy blessed Matrona of Moscow, the 130th anniversary of the birth of Elder Matrona was solemnly celebrated at the Pokrovsky Stauropegial Convent at the Pokrovskaya Zastava in Moscow. On this day, His Holiness Patriarch Kirill of Moscow and All Rus' led the Divine Liturgy in the Church of the Resurrection of the Word of the Intercession Monastery, after which the consecration of Archimandrite Irenaeus (Tafuni) as Bishop of Orsk and Gai was performed. At the end of the Liturgy, the High Hierarch addressed Bishop Irenaeus with parting words.

Your Eminence Bishop Irenaeus!

By the will of the Most High Bishop and the election of the Holy Synod, you are called to serve in the rank of bishop, to fatherly care for the clergy and flock of the Orsk and Gai diocese. Now, through the laying on of archpastoral hands and conciliar prayer, the grace of the Holy Spirit has descended upon you, sanctifying your nature and kindling in it the flame of Divine Love.

The Apostle John says that “God is love, and he who abides in love abides in God, and God in him” (1 John 4:16). The bishop remains in deep love for God, His Holy Church and his neighbors who make up his flock. How in our age, when lawlessness is already noticeably increasing (see Matt. 24:12), can an archpastor show the world an example of this Christian love?

God, worshiped in the Trinity, must be the center and goal of your service, the content of your heart and thoughts, the Alpha and Omega (see Rev. 1:8) of your being: “Thou shalt love the Lord thy God with all thy heart, and with all thy soul, and with all your mind and with all your strength” (Mark 12:30). Testify to the world your love for the Creator, so that, following your example, others will seek and acquire this saving feeling. Only in this way - in imitation of you - will your co-workers be inspired to unremitting work, and the people will preserve filial devotion to the Creator and a living, active faith.

To love the Mother Church means to honor the canons of the holy apostles, the rules of the Ecumenical and Local Councils, the teachings of the holy fathers, as you promised today in your bishop’s oath. Remain in strict obedience to the Hierarchy. Diligently build up the Church of Christ in the inheritance entrusted to you. Be a zealous and kind owner, collecting and increasing the spiritual and material wealth of the diocese in righteous ways. Show your love to the Church by educating worthy servants at the Throne of God, using all your rich pedagogical experience for the greater benefit of the cause. Be a good participant in the economy of the Lord: restore shrines, revive monasteries, create churches and new strong Orthodox communities on the blessed Orenburg land.

Love your flock with parental, sacrificial love. The Lord Himself and His disciples repeatedly pointed out that “we knew love in that He laid down His life for us; and we must lay down our lives for the brothers” (1 John 3:16, see also John 10:11; 1 John 4:9). Today an omophorion was placed on you, symbolizing a sheep that was lost, but saved from destruction and brought on the shoulders of a caring shepherd to his estate (Luke 15:4-7). Gather the flock of Christ through prayer, good deeds, preaching, fatherly edification and spiritual care, and thus lead the children of the church entrusted to you along the path of spiritual perfection into eternal life. Your good deeds should be charitable and social projects, educational programs for young people and educational programs - for those who are only looking for light in the darkness of false idols, the cult of consumerism and mercantile interests. Illuminate the hearts of your flock, bring to every home, every village and every city the Easter message that the atoning Sacrifice has been completed and everyone can enter the Kingdom of Heaven if they live in Christ.

The field before you is vast and difficult, just as the land where the Lord is sending you is vast. Do not be afraid of him, for “he who fears is not perfect in love” (1 John 4:18). Concluding my parting words, I would like to remind you of the words of St. Tikhon, spoken by him in the Assumption Cathedral of the Moscow Kremlin upon receiving the rod of St. Peter, Metropolitan of Moscow: “Archpastoral service is primarily the service of love.”

Accept this rod and, leaning on it, walk unfailingly along the narrow and thorny path of love and sacrificial service, determined by the Hero of our salvation, the path along which many of your predecessors walked. Now, from the fullness of the gifts sent down to you, give a blessing to the people of God, who together with us sincerely prayed that the Lord would help you to be a worthy successor to the apostles and holy fathers in their “teaching, life, disposition, faith, generosity, love” (2 Tim. 3:10). Amen.

Bishop's service on the Feast of the Entry into the Temple of the Blessed Virgin Mary

The night before, December 3, His Eminence Valentin, Metropolitan of Orenburg and Saraktash, head of the Orenburg Metropolis, celebrated a festive all-night vigil with lithium in the St. Nicholas Cathedral of Orenburg. Concelebrating with him was Bishop Irinei of Orsk and Gai, who arrived in our region, and the clergy of St. Nicholas Cathedral and the newly formed Orsk diocese.

Before the start of the service, the bishops venerated the main shrine of our diocese - the Tabyn Icon of the Mother of God, then Metropolitan Valentin introduced His Grace Bishop Irenaeus of Orsk and Gai. The head of the Orenburg Metropolis said that the Buzuluk diocese will also have its own bishop (he has not yet been appointed, and the temporary head of the Buzuluk diocese is Metropolitan Valentin).

On the very day of the Feast of the Entry of the Most Holy Theotokos into the Temple, December 4, Bishops: Metropolitan Valentin of Orenburg and Saraktash and Bishop Irenei of Orsk and Gai will arrive in Orsk in the morning. Here, His Eminence Valentin, Metropolitan of Orenburg and Saraktash, will celebrate the Divine Liturgy in the Church of the Intercession of the Most Holy Theotokos (former convent), he will be concelebrated by Bishop Irenei of Orsk and Gai and the clergy of the newly formed Orsk diocese.

Date of Birth: May 30, 1971 A country: Russia Biography:

Born on May 30, 1971 in the village. Varvarovka, Floresti district, Moldavian SSR, in a believing Orthodox family. Baptized in infancy.

In 1978-1986. Studied at secondary school. Varvarovka, in 1986-1989. - at the vocational school in Balti. In 1989-1991 served in the Armed Forces.

In 1991-1992 - novice of the Novo-Nyametsky Monastery.

In 1992-1996. studied at the Moscow Theological Seminary, upon graduation he was enrolled in.

On April 13, 1995, in the Holy Ascension Novo-Nyametsky Kitskansky Monastery, the abbot of the monastery (later the Bishop of Edinet and Brichansky, †2006) was tonsured into monasticism with the name Irenaeus in honor of the Hieromartyr Irenaeus of Lyons.

The life, work and confession of Metropolitan Arseny (Stadnitsky), son of the Moldavian people.

History of the Holy Ascension Novo-Nyametsky Kitskansky Monastery.

History of the Chisinau Theological Seminary. Part I.

Born May 30, 1971 in the village Varvarovka, Floresti district, Moldavian SSR, in a believing Orthodox family. Baptized in infancy.

In 1978-1986. Studied at secondary school. Varvarovka, in 1986-1989. - at the vocational school in Balti.

In 1989-1991served in the Armed Forces.

In 1991-1992- novice of the Novo-Nyametsky Monastery.

In 1992-1996.studied at the Moscow Theological Seminary, upon graduation he was enrolled in the Moscow Theological Academy.

April 13, 1995in the Holy Ascension Novo-Nyametsky Kitskansky Monastery, the abbot of the monastery, Archimandrite Dorimedont (Chekan) (later - Bishop of Edinetsky and Brichansky, †2006) was tonsured into monasticism with the name Irenaeus in honor of the Hieromartyr Irenaeus of Lyons.

May 28, 1995The rector of the MDA, Bishop Filaret (Karagodin) of Dmitrov, ordained him a hierodeacon.

September 10, 1995ordained a hieromonk by the rector of the MDA, Bishop Eugene of Vereya.

In 1996-1998performed obedience as assistant dean of the Moscow Theological Academy and Seminary.

In 1997As part of the delegation of the Russian Orthodox Church, headed by the rector of the MDA, Bishop Eugene of Vereisky, he took part in the celebrations on the occasion of the patronal feast of the St. Panteleimon Monastery on Athos.

In 1998Sent as a teacher to the Chisinau Theological Seminary, at the Moscow Theological Academy he switched to external studies.

In 1999graduated from MDA. In 2002, he defended his thesis at the Department of History of the Russian Orthodox Church on the topic “History of the Holy Ascension Novo-Nyametsky Kitskansky Monastery.” In 2009, he defended his candidate’s thesis in the Department of History of the Russian Orthodox Church on the topic “Metropolitan Gabriel (Banulescu-Bodoni) and the Chisinau-Moldovan Metropolis founded by him.”

In 1998-2001- teacher of basic theology, philosophy and liturgics at the Chisinau Theological Seminary.

In 1998-2004- missionary of the Chisinau Theological Seminary and Novo-Nyametsky Monastery, rector of the Bendery prison church of the Apostle Andrew the First-Called.

November 28, 1998awarded a legguard and a pectoral cross.

In 2000appointed to the post of Secretary of the Moldavian Metropolis.

In 2001-2004taught basic and comparative theology at the Bendery Theological School, in 2002-2005. - Religious Studies at Tiraspol State University.

Since 2004- Representative of the Moldavian Metropolitanate in Moscow; served in the Novospassky Monastery.

Since 2005- Advisor to the Ambassador of the Republic of Moldova to the Russian Federation.

In 2005-2009- teacher of patrolology at the Perervinsky Theological Seminary.

Since 2009- spiritual director of the Orthodox theater "Living Water", since 2010 - director of the Sunday school of the Novospassky Monastery. In 2011, he was appointed responsible for youth affairs at the Novospassky Monastery.

By the decision of the Holy Synod of October 5-6, 2011 (magazine № 113) elected Bishop of Orsk and Gai.

October 28, 2011In the working Patriarchal residence in Chisty Lane in Moscow, His Holiness Patriarch Kirill led the naming of Archimandrite Irenaeus as Bishop of Orsk.

November 22, 2011On the feast of the icon of the Mother of God, called “Quick to Hear,” and the name day of the holy blessed Matrona of Moscow, the 130th anniversary of the birth of Elder Matrona was solemnly celebrated at the Pokrovsky Stavropegic Convent at the Pokrovskaya Zastava in Moscow. On this day, His Holiness Patriarch Kirill of Moscow and All Rus' led the Divine Liturgy in the Church of the Resurrection of the Word of the Intercession Monastery, after which the consecration of Archimandrite Irenaeus was performed (Tafuni) Bishop of Orsk and Gai.

August 20, 2012- awarded the award of the Edinet and Brice diocese - the Order of St. Basil the Great, II degree.

Bishop of Orsk and Gai Irinei arrived at the place of service

December 4, 2011 , on the feast of the Entry into the Temple of the Blessed Virgin Mary, Metropolitan of Orenburg and Saraktash Valentin (Mishchuk) and Bishop of Orenburg and Gai Iriney (Tafunya) arrived in Orsk, reports the website of the Orenburg diocese.

In the Church of the Intercession of the Most Holy Theotokos of the former Intercession Convent, with the participation of the clergy of the Orsk diocese and a large crowd of believers, a Divine Liturgy took place. At the end of it, the head of the Orenburg Metropolis, Bishop Valentin, introduced the first ruling bishop of the newly formed diocese to the residents of Orenburg.

Then a gala reception took place on the occasion of the holiday, which was attended by Bishops Valentin and Irenaeus, the head of the city V.A. Franz, the clergy, representatives of the public, as well as deputy of the State Duma of the Russian Federation, chairman of the defense committee V.M. Zavarzin. Students from the Sunday schools of the Pokrovsky and Preobrazhensky parishes of Orsk performed a concert program for the guests.

Education:

1996. — Moscow Theological Seminary.

1999. — Moscow Theological Academy.

Scientific works, publications:

Word of Archimandrite Irenaeus (Tafuni) upon his naming as Bishop of Orsk and Gai.

Metropolitan Gabriel (Banulescu-Bodoni), founder of the Chisinau-Khotyn diocese.

The life, work and confession of Metropolitan Arseny (Stadnitsky), son of the Moldavian people.

History of the Holy Ascension Novo-Nyametsky Kitskansky Monastery.

History of the Chisinau Theological Seminary. Part I

On November 22, 2011, on the feast of the icon of the Mother of God, called “Quick to Hear,” and the name day of the holy blessed Matrona of Moscow, the 130th anniversary of the birth of Elder Matrona was solemnly celebrated at the Pokrovsky Stavropegial Convent at the Pokrovskaya Zastava in Moscow. On this day, His Holiness Patriarch Kirill of Moscow and All Rus' led the Divine Liturgy in the Church of the Resurrection of the Word of the Intercession Monastery, after which the consecration of Archimandrite Irenaeus (Tafuni) as Bishop of Orsk and Gai was performed. At the end of the Liturgy, the High Hierarch addressed Bishop Irenaeus with parting words.

Word of His Holiness Patriarch Kirill of Moscow and All Rus' upon presenting the bishop's staff to His Grace Irenaeus (Tafuna), Bishop of Orsk and Gai

Your Eminence Bishop Irenaeus!

Word of Archimandrite Irenaeus (Tafuni) upon his naming as Bishop of Orsk and Gai

October 28, 2011 In the working Patriarchal residence in Chisty Lane, His Holiness Patriarch Kirill of Moscow and All Rus' led the ceremony of naming Archimandrite Irenaeus (Tafuni) Bishop of Orsk and Gai.

At the naming, Archimandrite Irenaeus addressed His Holiness and the archpastors who served His Holiness with a protege’s word.

Your Holiness, Most Holy Lord and gracious father!

Your Eminences and Graces, God-wise and God-bearing archpastors of the Church of Christ!

Now, by the will of the Holy Spirit, the decision of His Holiness Patriarch Kirill of Moscow and All Rus' and the determination of the Holy Synod, I am called to accept the lot of archpastoral service. With all my heart I ask for holy prayers as you lay your holy hands on the head of my unworthiness, for now I dare to approach “the city of the living God” (Heb. 12:18, 22), so that the All-merciful Lord may grant me to fulfill His covenant “to present myself worthy to God... those who correctly administer the word of truth” (2 Tim. 2:15).

At this sacred hour of my life, I prostrate myself with deep humility and reverence before Almighty God, calling me, unworthy, to the great and immensely responsible hierarchal service, realizing the greatness of the Cross, which the Lord is now handing over to me. Having accepted the bishop's staff, a person must, according to St. Gregory the Theologian, stand with the Angels, sing praises with the Archangels, offer sacrifices on the altar on high, perform sacred acts with Christ, and create for the heavenly world.

The basis of the episcopal ministry is sacrificial love for God and people, which must be expressed in deed, word and unceasing prayer. For, according to the apostolic word, “if I do not have love, then I am nothing” (1 Cor. 13:2). Realizing the height of this ministry and its responsibility, I remember that the bishop must constantly watch, so that the wolves do not plunder and ruin the flock entrusted to his care, and be ready to lay down his life for the sheep (John 10:11). I am afraid, remembering that the holy apostles were sent into the world to preach the Word of God, and if Paul the Apostle says, “Woe is me if I do not preach the gospel” (1 Cor. 9:16), then what should I, unworthy, do? Will I be ready to do all this? I fear and tremble, I ask for help from the All-Merciful God, our Most Pure Lady Theotokos, all His saints and my heavenly patron - the Hieromartyr Irenaeus of Lyons, and from you, God-wise archpastors, in order to fulfill the obedience entrusted to me.

The bishop must remain faithful to the Church, have obedience to its Primate, so as not to accept condemnation on the day of the Last Judgment for perjury. The ministry of the bishop surpasses the weak strength of men, but I still have the firm conviction that the power of God “is made perfect in weakness” (2 Cor. 12:9). I believe that nothing in our lives happens without the Providence of God, and therefore I respond to God’s call to follow the path of sacrificial service to Him and His Holy Church, for the Lord calls every Christian to follow Him, taking up the Cross.

Realizing my weakness, I remember the words of the Holy Scripture: “Who am I, Lord... why have You exalted me so much?” (1 Chr. 17:16) and involuntarily I turn my mind’s eye to the path of life I have traveled. I cannot help but thank those people who took part in my life and had a significant impact on it.

From an early age I was raised in the spirit of the Orthodox faith, piety and love for God and neighbors. By the grace of God, the prayers and labors of my parents, I fell in love with the temple of God, and even then service in the priesthood attracted and at the same time frightened me, since those times were very difficult for the Church. One of the striking examples of standing for the true faith for me was the speech of my father and other believers asking the authorities to open a temple. Years later, while working in the State Archive of the Russian Federation, I found information about this request. Despite fear and difficulties, the Lord granted me years later to study at Moscow theological schools and begin pastoral ministry here.

Bishop Vincent of Bendery (now Metropolitan of Tashkent) and the late Bishop Dorimedont of Edinet in Bose had a special influence on my spiritual development, who gave me a personal example of a cordial attitude towards every person, taught me to appreciate all work, to be grateful to God and neighbors, to be zealous and devoted minister of the Church. Thanks to the wise archpastors, I strengthened myself spiritually and received strong instruction in monastic life.

I especially value my years of study at Moscow theological schools, where I was awarded holy orders, studied theology and acquired teaching skills. Here, the mentors who had a significant influence on my entire subsequent life were such outstanding contemporaries as Professor A.I. Osipov, Bishop Tikhon of Podolsk, who was the dean in those years, and, of course, the rector of the Moscow theological schools, Archbishop Evgeniy of Vereisky, who showed me significant confidence by appointing the assistant dean of the Academy to responsible obedience.

And, undoubtedly, the living example of the inhabitants of the Holy Trinity Sergius Lavra was immensely important for me. Their love for others, sacrificial service, prayerful standing and wise advice deeply impressed me. From them I tried to draw the spirit of the blessed legacy of St. Sergius.

I will always remember with joy the Novo-Nyametsky and Novospassky monasteries, where the Lord also vouchsafed me to serve and lead Sunday schools of the monasteries. This obedience was especially joyful for me, because the desire to be a teacher, teacher, mentor has been with me since childhood. And soon the Lord appointed me to teach at the Chisinau Theological Seminary and Tiraspol University, which was especially significant for me.

Seeing the will of God in this election, I humbly ask Your Holiness and you, God-wise archpastors, to offer a prayer for me and bless me for the upcoming feat, so that I, having become a teacher of others, “... will not be condemned” (James 3:1), so that I would be worthy of this great grace and retain it until the end of my life. Pray that the Lord will help me to be a worthy guardian of the purity of church teaching and a model of episcopal service. May God's will be done on me, a sinner! Amen.

Press service of the Patriarch of Moscow and All Rus'

Archimandrite Irenaeus (Tafuni) was named Bishop of Orsk

October 28, 2011 in the working Patriarchal residence in Chisty Lane, His Holiness Patriarch of Moscow and All Rus' Kirill led the rite of naming Archimandrite Theophan (Kim) as Bishop of Kyzyl and Tyvin, Archimandrite Gury (Fedorov) as Bishop of Arsenyevsk and Dalnegorsk and Archimandrite Irinei (Tafuni) as Bishop of Orsk and Gai.

Concelebrating with His Holiness were: Metropolitan Barsanuphius of Saransk and Mordovia, administrator of the affairs of the Moscow Patriarchate; Metropolitan Kirill of Yekaterinburg and Verkhoturye; Archbishop of Istra Arseny; Archbishop Jonathan of Abakan and Khakassia; Bishop Sergius of Solnechnogorsk, head of the Administrative Secretariat of the Moscow Patriarchate; Bishop Savva of the Resurrection, abbot of the Novospassky stauropegial monastery.

Hegumen Irenei (Tafunya), elected Bishop of Orsk, was elevated to the rank of archimandrite

With the blessing of His Holiness Patriarch Kirill of Moscow and All Rus', on October 27, 2011, in the cross church in honor of the Vladimir Icon of the Mother of God of the Patriarchal residence in Chisty Lane, the manager of the affairs of the Moscow Patriarchate, Metropolitan Barsanuphius of Saransk and Mordovia, elevated Hieromonk Gury (Fedorov), elected Bishop of Arsenyevsk and Dalnegorsk, and Abbot Irenaeus (Tafunyu), elected Bishop of Orsk and Gai, to the rank of archimandrite.

The Holy Synod also formed (magazine № 103) within the administrative boundaries of the Adamovsky, Gaisky, Dombarovsky, Kvarkensky, Kuvandyksky, Novoorsky, Svetlinsky and Yasnensky districts, as well as the Novotroitsky and Orsky municipalities of the Orenburg region - the Orsk diocese, separating it from the Orenburg diocese. Having considered the issue of appointing the ruling bishop of the Orsk diocese, the Holy Synod (magazine ? 425 kilometers. The total length of the region’s borders is 3,700 kilometers, of which the border with Kazakhstan alone is 1,670 kilometers long.

Monastic life takes place in two monasteries: St. Andrew's for men and Tikhvin for women.

The Council of Bishops in 2011 drew attention to the need to increase the attention of the ruling bishop to the parish life of the diocese.

Based on the above, I respectfully ask for the blessing of Your Holiness and the Holy Synod on the allocation of two new dioceses from the Orenburg diocese.”

DECIDED:

1. Express gratitude to Metropolitan Valentin of Orenburg and Buzuluk for his efforts to improve church life in the Orenburg region.

2. To form, within the administrative boundaries of Asekeyevsky, Buguruslansky, Buzuluksky, Grachevsky, Ileksky, Krasnogvardeysky, Kurmanaevsky, Pervomaisky, Northern, Sorochinsky, Tashlinsky and Totsky districts of the Orenburg region, the Buzuluk diocese, separating it from the Orenburg diocese.

3. The diocesan bishop of the Buzuluk diocese should have the title “Buzuluk and Sorochinsky”.

4. The diocesan bishop of the Orenburg diocese should have the title “Orenburg and Saraktash”.

5.To form the Orsk diocese within the administrative boundaries of the Adamovsky, Gaisky, Dombarovsky, Kvarkensky, Kuvandyksky, Novoorsky, Svetlinsky and Yasnensky districts, as well as the Novotroitsky and Orsky municipalities of the Orenburg region, separating it from the Orenburg diocese.

6.The diocesan bishop of the Orsk diocese should have the title “Orsky and Gaisky”.

Elect Abbot Irenaeus (Tafunya), a cleric of the Chisinau diocese, as Bishop of Orsk and Gai.

The place of the naming and ordination of Abbot Irenaeus (Tafuni) as a bishop, upon his elevation to the rank of archimandrite, is left to the discretion of the Patriarch of Moscow and All Rus' Kirill.

Holy Great Martyr and Healer Panteleimon

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