: Anniversary of the repose of Archbishop Theodore (Rafalsky)

Today is the anniversary of the repose of the ever-memorable Archbishop Theodore (Rafalsky) (1895-1955), the first Ruling Bishop of the Australian-New Zealand Diocese of the Russian Orthodox Church Outside Russia. After his arrival in Australia in November 1948 Vladyka Theodore organised many parishes and communities of believers, received clergy into the Diocese, laid the groundwork for a proper Diocesan administration, and oversaw the building and consecration of Saints Peter and Paul Diocesan Cathedral in Strathfield, NSW. He was known for his humility, his warmth, and his simplicity. He reposed on 5 May 1955 following a brief illness, aged only 59, and was laid to rest beside the Strathfield Cathedral. Memory Eternal!

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