NEW YORK: August 20, 2009
Statement from the Chancery of the Russian Orthodox Church Outside of Russia

It is hereby communicated to the clergy, members of the Association, parishioners and worshipers of Archangel Michael Church in Cannes, that retired Bishop Varnava (Prokofiev) and Hieromonk Seraphim (Barantchikov) are removed from all duties until the clarification of the situation the has developed at this church and until a final decision on this matter by the Synod of Bishops of the Russian Orthodox Church Outside of Russia. Bishop Varnava and Hieromonk Seraphim are to immediately vacate the church house and hand over the keys from the church and other church premises, the church-parish seal, metrical books and other documents to Priest Jean Gautier or Secretary Olga Kamenskaya.

+HILARION
Metropolitan of Eastern America and New York
First Hierarch of the Russian Orthodox Church Outside of Russia

[Synod Seal]

August 20, 2009