A chapel in honor of Saint Great Martyr and Healer Panteleimon was opened at the Bogushevsk boarding school for children with disabilities
- I saw a similar chapel on the territory of one of the institutions in the republic, and I wanted to build the same one here, - said the former director of the boarding school, Viktor Suvorov. – After all, now it is important not only to feed and clothe a person, but also to think about the soul. And last year proved: children need spiritual education, we must do everything so that they love their land, are proud of our people, and know history.
Viktor Kirillovich was met with particularly warm applause at the event. This was partly because he was the one who initiated this kind and necessary undertaking. The pupils of the boarding school, more than anyone else, need spiritual support and guidance. Many of them participate in divine services and religious rites whenever possible. But all residents here could visit a church themselves. Now they have a house of worship within walking distance.
The state is doing a lot to support, protect, and improve the quality of life for people with disabilities, noted the Deputy Chairman of the Vitebsk Regional Executive Committee, Vladimir Penin. Special gratitude is extended to those who contribute to the spiritual and moral education of society. Vladimir Penin recalled that the agreement on cooperation concluded between the Orthodox Church and the state also contributes to the formation of a moral culture. Another step in its implementation is the opening of a chapel on the territory of the Bogushevsk boarding school, so that everyone who wishes can embrace faith.
In the Vitebsk region, there are 15 stationary social service institutions designed for citizens with disabilities. And the Bogushevsk boarding school for children with disabilities is the only one on whose territory a religious building is located. Its opening was a significant event: now not only the children, but also their parents and the staff of the boarding school can touch the sacred, be alone with God.
The honorable right to cut the ribbon was granted to the Deputy Chairman of the Regional Executive Committee Vladimir Penin, the Chairman of the Committee for Labor, Employment and Social Protection of the Regional Executive Committee Alexander Khristoforov, the Director of the boarding school Elena Lautkina, the assistant to the manager of the Vitebsk diocese, Igumen Nil Podobed. A thanksgiving prayer service on the occasion of the chapel's opening was held by Nil Podobed and the rector of the Church of Saints Peter and Paul, Priest Grigory.