The meeting discussed progress in restoration of the cathedral.
Svetlana Medvedeva thanked everyone who participated in restoring ‘one of the most important cultural and spiritual treasure-troves of Russia.’ The First Lady suggested putting commemorative plaques in the cathedral in honour of sailors who perished. Svetlana Medvedeva also expressed her wish for the restored Naval Cathedral to house the jack from the legendary Varyag cruiser, which was recently returned to Russia during the President of Russia’s visit to the Republic of Korea, where it was kept in a museum depository.
Restoration of the historical Naval Cathedral in the fortified city of Kronstadt will be completed in a year. Plans are underway for Patriarch Kirill of Moscow and all Russia to consecrate the cathedral in March 2012.
It is expected that the cathedral will be fully restored in time for the 100th anniversary of its first consecration, which will be celebrated in 2013.
Participants in the meeting were able to observe restoration works online. Video streaming is available on the Naval Cathedral’s website.