Metr. Hilarion Says He Hopes to Spend Remaining Years in Quiet Retirement

MOSCOW — Metr. Hilarion Alfeyev says he hopes to spend the remainder of his life in quiet retirement devoted to writing and study, drawing inspiration from St. Theophan the Recluse. In an interview with RIA Novosti, the senior Russian Orthodox hierarch said he views his current circumstances as part of God's providence and intends to continue producing theological and cultural works.

The comments came after Patr. Kirill temporarily suspended a June decree assigning Metr. Hilarion to serve in Brazil. At the Metropolitan's request, he was instead permitted to remain in Russia to care for his elderly mother. He has been assigned to reside and serve at the Jerusalem Stavropegic Convent of the Exaltation of the Cross in the Moscow Region, where he said he is grateful for the opportunity to continue his ministry.

Metr. Hilarion explained that he typically works on several books simultaneously. His latest publication, "The Radiance of Glory," offers a commentary on the Epistle to the Hebrews. He also announced that forthcoming books will examine composer Dmitry Shostakovich, artist Michelangelo, and the ministry of angels, while he is completing a volume on St. John the Theologian for the "Lives of Remarkable People" series. Previous entries in the series have focused on Jesus Christ, the apostles Peter and Paul, and Patr. Kirill.

The Metropolitan was briefly detained by Czech authorities in May on suspicion of drug possession after narcotics were allegedly discovered in his vehicle. He was released without charges two days later and has consistently maintained that the drugs were planted, expressing hope that those responsible will ultimately be identified and prosecuted.

Previously, the UOJ reported that Metr. Hilarion described his unforgettable communion with God in prison.