Fasting and Prayers to Be Held in Alaska Ahead of the U.S.–Russia Presidential Meeting

The Diocese of Sitka and Alaska of the Orthodox Church in America will hold a series of spiritual events from August 12 to 15 in connection with the upcoming summit between Presidents Donald Trump and Vladimir Putin, scheduled for August 15 in Alaska. With the blessing of Archbishop Alexei of Sitka and Alaska, the faithful have been called to a three-day fast, daily church services, and a common day of prayer dedicated to petitions for peace, protection of civilians, the return of captives, and comfort for all who are in sorrow. This was reported on the official website of the Diocese of Sitka and Alaska of the Orthodox Church in America.

In his pastoral message, Archbishop Alexei stated that Orthodox Christians will pray to Christ “to guide the presidents’ talks with mercy, to help end hostility and bloodshed.” According to him, praying for the country’s leaders is a spiritual duty for believers, not a political act.

Throughout the week, churches of the diocese will hold prayer services for peace and Akathists to Alaskan saints. The culmination will come on August 15, when churches will remain open for prayer, and at noon, bells across Alaska will ring, calling parishioners to a united appeal to God.

As a reminder, American pastor Mark Burns, who is a member of Donald Trump’s circle of associates, said that at the upcoming meeting of the US and Russian presidents, which will take place on August 15 in Alaska, Donald Trump will “hold Vladimir Putin accountable.” Burns believes that the meeting between the US and Russian presidents means that Putin is “backed into a corner” and is forced to make choices that do not suit him.