On November 30, 2024, celebrations marking Republic Day took place in Bangui, the capital of the Central African Republic (CAR). Among the attendees was Father Sergius Voemava, Dean of the North African Diocese in the CAR and rector of the Church of Apostle Andrew, reports the Patriarchal Exarchate of Africa.

For his contributions to social and educational services, including the successful operation of the St. Sergius of Radonezh Orthodox School and his care for orphaned children, Father Sergius was awarded the CAR’s highest national honor—the Order of Merit in the rank of Commander.

The Russian Orthodox Church operates in the CAR at the request of local residents and Russian expatriates working in the country. The Patriarchal Exarchate of Africa actively promotes missionary and educational initiatives, including publishing liturgical books in French and translating the Liturgy of St. John Chrysostom into Sango, the official language of the CAR.

In October, Metropolitan Konstantin, head of the exarchate, visited the CAR and met with President Faustin-Archange Touadéra. The president acknowledged the Russian Church’s contributions to the nation and expressed hope for the continued growth of its mission.