Prince Vladimir/Volodymyr of Kyiv (AD 958-1015) sent his emissaries to tour the world in search of the True Faith. Upon their return, they reported to him as follows: 

Then we went to Greece [Constantinople], and the Greeks (including the Emperor himself) led us to the edifices where they worship their God, and we knew not whether we were in heaven or on earth. For on earth, there is no such splendour or such beauty, and we are at a loss how to describe it. We only know that God dwells there among men, and their service is fairer than the ceremonies of other nations. For we cannot forget that beauty. These words came to mind after the 3-and-a-half-hour service of Matins and the Holy Liturgy from 6.30 to 10 00 a.m. As we are beginning the liturgy at home everything is finished here. I was able to be at the altar of St Lazarus church in Larnaka, a most ancient and beautiful church. I remembered you all at the proskomede and the names which I had written on Wednesday were read out by another priest. I lost count of the number of huge baskets of antidoron blessed. I took two prosphora given to me by K’s mother and C’s mother.

A late lunch before the fast. The local cafe cat spotted me as a soft and easy target for food. Looking deep into my eyes and with a pleading meow I gave in to the cat’s supplication. 

More texts and more reunions followed …

A blessed day of prayer and fellowship.