Patriarch Kirill of Moscow met with Simona Halperin, the Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the State of Israel to Russia, at the Patriarchal and Synodal Residence in Danilov Monastery, Moscow.
Welcoming the ambassador, Patriarch Kirill emphasized the special relationship between the Russian Orthodox Church and the Holy Land, which naturally extends to the State of Israel. He highlighted the important role of the Russian Ecclesiastical Mission in Jerusalem, which supports Orthodox pilgrims and fosters relations with religious communities in Israel.
“This mission undoubtedly serves an important purpose, contributing to the development of good relations between our states,” Patriarch Kirill remarked.
During the discussion, Patriarch Kirill expressed concern over issues of peace and security in the Holy Land.
“I believe this is a matter of concern not only for the State of Israel but for all those who live in the Holy Land,” he stated. “It directly affects human lives. Additionally, for those outside Israel who maintain ties to the Holy Land—primarily through pilgrimage—it is crucial to ensure the safety of pilgrims, as well as the peaceful presence of representatives of the Russian Church who permanently reside in Israel, particularly in Jerusalem.”
The Patriarch also underscored the deep historical and spiritual connection of the Russian people to the Holy Land.
“For centuries, Russian pilgrims, often risking their lives and with limited means, made the journey to venerate the holy sites. It was an extraordinary effort, requiring them to cross multiple countries, sometimes facing captivity and hardships. Yet, they remained unwavering in their desire to reach the Holy Land,” he said.
“Today, there are no such restrictions. Our pilgrims travel freely and feel completely safe, which we deeply appreciate. I would like to take this opportunity to thank all those who, including from a political standpoint, ensure the safety of pilgrims, their presence in the Holy Land, and the continued functioning of the Russian Ecclesiastical Mission in Jerusalem,” Patriarch Kirill added.
Ambassador Simona Halperin expressed her deep honor in meeting with the Primate of the Russian Orthodox Church, stating: “It is a great pleasure for us in Israel—and for me personally—to welcome pilgrims from the Russian Federation.” She further emphasized the importance of cooperation, friendship, and dialogue not only between the Russian and Israeli peoples but also between their respective religious communities.
“We have so much in common,” she noted.
Source: Patriarchate of Moscow/ Translated by: Konstantinos Menyktas
