Patriarch Kirill to Pat. Theophilos: Let Us Uphold Canonical Orthodoxy

Patriarchs Kirill and Theophilos during the latter's 2013 visit to St. Petersburg. [CREDIT: www.pravmir.com]

July 1, 2025 — Patriarch Kirill of Moscow and All Russia has addressed a warm message of congratulations to His Beatitude Patriarch Theophilos III of Jerusalem, marking the 50th anniversary of his ordination to the holy priesthood.

In his letter, Patriarch Kirill referred to the Jerusalem patriarch as a “beloved brother and fellow servant at the throne of God,” expressing heartfelt joy at this significant spiritual milestone.

“Fifty years ago,” Kirill wrote, “the Lord entrusted you with the sacred dignity of the priesthood, granting you the grace to lift up prayers, supplications, and thanksgivings for all people (cf. 1 Timothy 2:1).” He went on to praise Patriarch Theophilos’ nearly two decades of steadfast service as primate of the Church of Jerusalem, during which he has “faithfully taught the word of truth (2 Timothy 2:15), fostered peace, and upheld canonical Orthodoxy.”

Patriarch Kirill also expressed solidarity with the Church of Jerusalem and called for a continued defense of canonical order in the life of the Orthodox Church. His message is seen as both a personal tribute and a broader appeal for unity among the Local Churches amid ongoing ecclesiastical tensions.

The Patriarch of Moscow concluded by invoking the blessing of Christ the Savior upon Patriarch Theophilos, praying for his good health, strength of soul, and continued pastoral endurance in his sacred ministry in the Holy Land.

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