The Primate of the Autonomous Orthodox Church of Japan, Archbishop Daniel of Tokyo, Metropolitan of all Japan consecrated a new church in honor of Theophany in the city of Nagoya. The snow-white church in the Suzdal style, 11 meters in height, was built in the middle of a typical Japanese residential district in only six months, reports the Vesti channel.
Funds for the construction of the temple were raised by the faithful. The community is headed by the priest-in-charge, Fr. George Matsushima.
Japanese cedar, considered one of the most solid and durable varieties of wood, was used in the temple's interior design. Outside the church is decorated in the best traditions of old Russian architecture.
About 300 believers came to the consecration of the new Theophany Church. The service was done in about four hours. To accommodate all attendees live television transmission was provided in a separate room.
Greeting the crowd on the holy day, Metropolitan Daniel of Tokyo and All Japan, in part, said: "This is a significant day for our Church. With the opening of a new temple in Japan, more people will learn about Orthodoxy. I am glad that it took place precisely in Nagoya, because this city is located in the heart of this country. "
Until the end of the month of worship in Nagoya will be committed in an old temple, and the final move to the new location will be marked by the All-Night Vigil on the night of 30 to 31 January.