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

Abducted Ukrainian Deacon Dies During Military Training

Abducted and conscripted Ukrainian deacon Orest Black, known for his devotion and sacred singing, tragically died at age 46 during military training, leaving a legacy of faith and humility.

Court Hearing on Expulsion of Monks from Kyiv-Pechersk Lavra Postponed Again

A long-delayed monastery lawsuit against a sanctuary faces yet another indefinite postponement after the presiding judge went on sick leave.

OCA Clergy Gather for Winter Synaxis Focused on Renewal and Resilience

More than 100 OCA clergy gathered online for the Winter 2025 Synaxis to pray, learn, and reflect on sustaining pastoral ministry and avoiding burnout through renewal in Christ.

Trump Administration Moves to Ban Federally Funded Transgender Procedures for Minors

The Trump administration is moving to bar federally funded hospitals from performing transgender medical procedures on minors, citing evidence of harm and a duty to protect children.

Bp. Theodosius: Ukraine's Authorities Classify Icons as Works of Art and Relics as Mummies

ROCOR hierarch links current policies toward holy sites and clergy to Soviet-era repression, calls for prayer and respect for religious freedom.

Society of St. John's Day of Action Gives Hope Persecution of UOC May Subside, Analyst Says

Political scientist says congressional outreach and high-level U.S. statements signal possible shift in response to persecution of the Ukrainian Orthodox Church.