The first service of the new Orthodox parish in honor of the Nativity of Christ was held in France

In the northwestern part of France, in the town of Arradon, a newly formed Orthodox community celebrated its formation by celebrating its first Divine Liturgy. The event, timed to coincide with the feast of Pentecost, marked the beginning of the regular liturgical life of the new parish, uniting the faithful of the region.

According to the Orthochristian publication with reference to the Archdiocese of the Orthodox Churches of the Russian Tradition in Western Europe, the community, called the Parish of the Nativity of Christ, held its first solemn service on May 31 in the local Catholic chapel of St. Barbara. At the end of the Liturgy, the faithful celebrated Pentecost Vespers with the traditional kneeling ceremony. The celebration was held with the blessing of His Eminence Metropolitan John of Dubna.

The service was led by Priest Simeon Chukhadjiender with Deacon Sergius Malko; both clergy represent the parish of the Resurrection of Christ in Nantes. The faithful from neighboring towns including Lorient, Vannes and Surzur came to support the new community. In his sermon, Father Simeon expressed his gratitude to Metropolitan John, the founders of the community and all those who supported the parish with their personal presence or prayers. The celebration ended with a community meal organized in the parish hall through the efforts of Mother Angelica and the parishioners.