With deep emotion and spiritual joy, the construction of the Holy Cathedral of the Virgin Mary in Arusha, Tanzania continues. A dream of many years is becoming a reality—a vision of faith is being built, stone by stone. The Cathedral will serve as the center of Orthodox worship in a region that thirsts for spiritual guidance, support, and direction. It will become the heart of missionary work, and in the embrace of the Theotokos, future generations will be nurtured, and people will find comfort and refuge.
A milestone of great spiritual significance in the development of this project was the historic visit of His Beatitude Pope and Patriarch of Alexandria, Theodore II, to Arusha in 2022. During that visit, His Beatitude laid the foundation stone of the Holy Cathedral. That day, when the Primate of the Second Throne Patriarchate blessed the soil of Arusha and placed the cornerstone, was indelibly etched in the hearts of the people. It was a moment of profound spiritual emotion—a silent promise that Orthodoxy has come to stay, to take root, and to minister to the African people. It conveyed the message that even in the most remote corners of the world, the Church does not forget; it embraces, it is present, it blesses, and it cares.
His Grace Bishop Agathonikos of Arusha and Central Tanzania, along with his close collaborators, personally oversees the progress of the construction with dedication and vigilant care. He ensures that every stone becomes a prayer, every effort a hymn of praise. He expresses his gratitude to all the friends, donors, parishes, missionary societies, and every soul supporting this effort. He invites us to continue walking alongside him on this sacred journey. The road ahead is still long, and the completion of the Cathedral requires the cooperation of all. Every contribution—big or small—every prayer, every sharing of the mission, is a precious stone in the building of the Cathedral of the Virgin Mary.
