In 1853, the Crimean War began; on May 3, 1854, the mission was withdrawn to Russia. The return took place through Western Europe; Theophan visited many cities, churches, museums, libraries, and educational institutions. Notably, Archimandrite Porphyrius and Hieromonk Theophan had an audience with Pope Pius IX.
In 1853, t.he Crimean War began; on May 3, 1854, the mission was withdrawn to Russia. The return took place through Western Europe; Theophan visited many cities, churches, museums, libraries, and educational institutions. Notably, Archimandrite Porphyrius and Hieromonk Theophan had an audience with Pope Pius IX