The Russian Orthodox Church played an active role in discussions at the St. Petersburg International Economic Forum (SPIEF) 2026, contributing to debates on economic development, entrepreneurship, demographics, and the future of Russia’s regions. Metropolitan Barsanuphius of St. Petersburg and Metropolitan Ambrose of Tver emphasized that economic growth should not be viewed as an end in itself, arguing that social prosperity must be grounded in moral values, care for individuals, support for families, and responsibility toward others.

The hierarchs described entrepreneurship as a form of service and stressed the importance of overcoming not only material poverty but also spiritual poverty. They also highlighted the need to preserve the cultural and historical identity of Russia’s regions. Human dignity, social solidarity, and the search for a balance between economic progress and spiritual principles were central themes of the Church’s participation at the forum.

According to Russian media reports, SPIEF 2026 brought together representatives from more than 100 countries and concluded with the signing of over 1,000 agreements in the fields of economics, science, healthcare, and international cooperation.

Meanwhile, Metropolitan Anthony of Volokolamsk visited Ethiopia, where he held meetings with Patriarch Abune Mathias of the Ethiopian Orthodox Tewahedo Church, members of the Holy Synod, and Ethiopian President Taye Atske Selassie. The parties reaffirmed the fraternal relationship between the Russian and Ethiopian Churches and discussed the expansion of student exchanges, monastic cooperation, church art initiatives, and joint work in international forums. Special attention was given to the role of traditional Christian Churches in the modern world and to strengthening Russian-Ethiopian relations.

The Russian Orthodox Church also continued its humanitarian efforts in areas affected by the ongoing conflict. In Belgorod, Bishop Zosima visited military hospitals, meeting with wounded servicemen and medical personnel, while volunteers of the Patriarchal Humanitarian Mission maintained their daily outreach work. Another shipment of drinking water was delivered to residents in need in Donetsk. At an international forum near Moscow, Church representatives discussed spiritual and psychological support for veterans and their families. Orthodox volunteers also gathered in Moscow to coordinate humanitarian assistance for parishes and civilians in affected regions.

On the international stage, Patriarch Theophilos III of Jerusalem met with U.S. President Donald Trump during an official visit to the United States. Their discussions focused on the situation of Christians in the Middle East, the protection of holy sites, and safeguarding religious freedom in the Holy Land. The Patriarch raised concerns about access to places of worship and emphasized the importance of preserving the historic status quo in Jerusalem. In recognition of his support, Trump was presented with the highest award of the Jerusalem Patriarchate.

In North America, the Orthodox Church in America reported a growing shortage of clergy. A newly released study found that while the number of parishes and missions continues to increase, the number of active priests is not keeping pace with this growth. Annual ordinations are only sufficient to replace retiring clergy, while the establishment of new communities is placing additional strain on existing personnel. Researchers warn that without further measures, the clergy shortage is likely to deepen despite the influx of new faithful and the continued development of church life.

In Montenegro, French President Emmanuel Macron visited the historic Cetinje Monastery during the EU–Western Balkans Summit, which focused on the region’s European integration. Macron met with Metropolitan Joanikije of Montenegro and the Littoral to discuss the significance of religious and cultural heritage, as well as the longstanding historical ties between France and Montenegro. The visit underscored the role of the Orthodox Church as one of the country’s key social institutions amid ongoing debates about its European future.

In Serbia, the visit of the Belt of the Most Holy Theotokos, one of the most revered relics in the Orthodox world, came to an end. The relic, permanently housed at the Vatopedi Monastery on Mount Athos, was brought to Serbia for the first time in many centuries. According to the Serbian Orthodox Church, approximately one million people venerated the holy relic during its stay. Thousands of pilgrims waited for hours each day for the opportunity to pay their respects. The farewell ceremony at the Church of Saint Sava in Belgrade was led by Patriarch Porfirije, who reminded the faithful that the spiritual gift and blessing received through the visit of the relic would remain with them long after its departure.

These developments reflect the continuing engagement of Orthodox Churches in public life, international relations, humanitarian service, and the spiritual needs of believers around the world.