On May 24, 2025, Patriarch Theophilos III of Jerusalem sent warm congratulations to Patriarch Kirill of Moscow and All Russia on the occasion of his name day.
In his message, he emphasized the spiritual significance of patron saints, expressed prayers for continued pastoral zeal, and invoked blessings from the Holy Sepulchre for Patriarch Kirill’s ministry and flock.
Read the full message:
“Dearest brother, with a heart filled with joy and gladness on the occasion of your glorious name day, we address to you our heartfelt congratulations and best wishes.
As our holy father Isaac the Syrian said: ‘The saint whose name we bear is our protector and guide on the spiritual path,’ on which, according to our holy father Gregory the Theologian, ‘we renew our faith and seek his (our patron’s) intercession.’
Keeping in mind the words of the Lord: ‘Be holy, for I am holy’ (1 Peter 1:16), and heeding the words of the divine Apostle Paul, we sincerely pray that for many more years you may ‘be devoted to one another in love. Honor one another above yourselves. Never be lacking in zeal, but keep your spiritual fervor, serving the Lord. Be joyful in hope, patient in affliction, faithful in prayer’ (cf. Romans 12:10–12), for the comfort, edification, and salvation of your Christ-loving flock entrusted to you by God, and for the glory of our Triune God.”
Thus, from the Most Holy and Life-Giving Tomb of our Savior Christ, sending greetings in the Lord to Your most beloved and greatly cherished Beatitude, we remain…”
Your beloved Beatitude’s brother in Christ,
Theophilos III, Patriarch of Jerusalem
Source: Patriachate of Moscow
