On June 26, 2024, Patriarch Kirill of Moscow presided over the regular meeting of the Supreme Church Council of the Russian Orthodox Church. In his opening remarks, Patriarch Kirill called for the remembrance of Archpriest Nikolai Kotelnikov, who was tragically murdered while serving at the Church of the Intercession of the Most Holy Theotokos in Derbent.
“I would like to start with a tragic topic — the murder of Archpriest Nikolai Kotelnikov, who was killed in the church. Not for any crimes, but only because some evil force needed this death. It shocked the residents of Derbent, and not only them. I think everyone who learned about this was amazed by the very fact, as well as the place where the crime occurred, and by the very possibility of killing a priest for nothing — only because someone considered it necessary for themselves, and maybe even useful.”
Patriarch Kirill highlighted the moral and spiritual decline indicated by this heinous act, emphasizing the broader societal implications and the necessity for stronger resistance against such terrorist sentiments.
“This, of course, testifies to the corresponding moral and spiritual decline not only of those people among whom the murderer was raised, but also, perhaps, of the part of society that, unfortunately, does not adequately resist the emergence of such terrorist sentiments that pose a danger not only to someone personally, but also to our entire country and our entire people.”
Following his speech, the Patriarch led the council members in singing “Eternal Memory” for the departed Archpriest Nikolai.
In honor of Archpriest Kotelnikov’s service and sacrifice, Patriarch Kirill announced that he would be posthumously awarded the Order of Alexander Nevsky. This recognition underscores the profound loss felt by the Church and the community and commemorates Archpriest Nikolai’s dedication and martyrdom.
Source: Moscow Patriarchate / Translated from Russian: Konstantinos Menyktas