Patriarch Kirill: ROC and RCC bear special responsibility for humankind

Patriarch Kirill and Pope Francis in Havana in 2016. Photo: interfax.ru

Patriarch Kirill of Moscow and All Rus’ has sent a message to Pope Francis on the occasion of his 85th anniversary, reports the official website of the Moscow Patriarchate.

The Primate of the Russian Orthodox Church emphasized the special importance of interaction between Moscow and Rome, recalling the meeting in Havana in 2016.

“As the heads of the world's two largest Christian Churches, we bear special responsibility for the fate of humankind," Patriarch Kirill wrote to Pope Francis.

He noted that, given the difference in traditions, Moscow and Rome can cooperate in a number of important areas.

"I am pleased to note that, while preserving loyalty to our common traditions, our churches have at the same time achieved a high level of interaction, thanks to which we can take joint steps to celebrate the name of God across the globe, to consolidate the lifelong moral ideals in society, to develop inter-faith dialogue, and to come up with worthy responses to modern-day challenges," says Patriarch Kirill’s message.

Read also

St. Olga of Alaska Officially Glorified in Her Hometown of Kwethluk

First North American female saint honored in historic vigil attended by hundreds of pilgrims and hierarchs.

Pro-Constantinople Outlet Reports on Violent Cathedral Seizure in Chernivtsi

An article from the Orthodox Times highlights rising attacks against UOC faithful and clergy amid escalating church property disputes.

Metropolitan Longin Alleges Assassination Plot Against Him

Bancheny hierarch claims a group from Ivano-Frankivsk was sent to kill him.

Archbishop of Cyprus: Decision on Metropolitan Tychikos’ Appeal Expected in August

Hierarch retains presumption of innocence amid ongoing review by Ecumenical Patriarchate.

Holy Cross Seminarians Conclude Pilgrimage with Spiritual Encounters in Thessaloniki and Mount Athos

Students reflect on ministry and heritage during the final days of the transformative journey.

Estonian Government Passes New Law Against Orthodox Church

New legislation would force the Estonian Orthodox Church to cut its ties with the Moscow Patriarchate. This is depsite the fact that the Estonian Church has been autonomous since 1993.