Metropolitan Pavel of Manila and Hanoi commenced his visit to Vietnam, marking a significant occasion by consecrating a new home temple dedicated to the Kazan Icon of the Mother of God in the city of Vung Tau on February 27.

According to the Patriarchal Exarchate of Southeast Asia's Telegram channel, following the divine service, the hierarch presented a commemorative medal to Svetlana Shcherbakova, whose efforts contributed to the adorned decoration of the temple. Metropolitan Pavel also engaged in discussions with the faithful present.

The following day, Metropolitan Pavel conducted a parish meeting in Nha Trang city. Russian believers in Nha Trang appealed to the archpastor for the establishment of an Orthodox parish in their city. During the meeting, a parish dedicated to St. Nicholas the Wonderworker was established, and a parish council consisting of fifteen members was elected.

Before this, three Russian Orthodox parishes were functioning in Vietnam: the Kazan Icon of the Mother of God in Vung Tau, Blessed Xenia of St. Petersburg in Hanoi, and the Protection of the Most Holy Theotokos in Ho Chi Minh City.

As reported by the press service of the Philippine-Vietnamese Diocese, Metropolitan Pavel is expected to stay in Vietnam until the next week. During his visit, he plans to meet with the Russian Ambassador to Vietnam, members of the Committee for Religious Affairs of the Republic of Vietnam, and conduct divine services in Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City.