Laurus Škurla

Laurus Škurla, born on January first, nineteen twenty-eight in Czechoslovakia, emerged as a significant figure in the Eastern Orthodox Church. After World War II, he emigrated to the United States in nineteen forty-six alongside his brothers from the monastery, seeking a new beginning. They became part of the Holy Trinity Monastery in Jordanville, New York, which had been established in nineteen twenty-eight by the Russian Orthodox Church Outside of Russia.

In nineteen fifty-four, Father Laurus was ordained to the priesthood, marking the beginning of a dedicated journey within the church. His commitment and leadership qualities allowed him to rise through the ranks, ultimately becoming the First Hierarch of the Russian Orthodox Church Outside Russia, the fifth cleric to hold this esteemed position.

Later in his life, following the fall of the Soviet Union, Father Laurus played a pivotal role in negotiating the fourth ROCOR agreement, which facilitated the reunion of ROCOR with the Russian Orthodox Patriarchate based in Moscow. His efforts were instrumental in bridging gaps and fostering unity within the Orthodox community.

In two thousand seven, Father Laurus participated in a historic joint celebration of the Divine Liturgy with the Patriarch of Moscow at the Christ the Saviour Cathedral in Moscow, symbolizing a significant moment of reconciliation and collaboration within the Orthodox faith.