Patriarch Kirill of Moscow and All Russia extended his heartfelt congratulations to Patriarch John X of Antioch and on the occasion of the anniversary of his enthronement. This year also marks the 30th anniversary of his episcopal consecration and his 70th birthday.
In his congratulatory message, Patriarch Kirill acknowledged the sacred responsibility entrusted to Patriarch John X by the Holy Synod of the Antiochian Orthodox Church, which elected him to the ancient Patriarchal Throne. He emphasized the spiritual and historical significance of Antioch, a land sanctified by the labors of the Holy Apostles Peter and Paul, as well as other great saints of the Church.
“Over the many years of your archpastoral and later primatial ministry, you have earned the sincere love and respect of your fellow bishops, clergy, and the faithful of your Holy Church,” Patriarch Kirill wrote. “By the example of your own life, you teach the faithful to bear fruit in every good work and to grow in the knowledge of God (Col. 1:10).”
Recognizing the difficult circumstances faced by the Syrian people, Patriarch Kirill praised Patriarch John X as a true shepherd and loving father to his flock. He commended his unwavering efforts to defend and preserve the Christian presence in Syria, a land blessed with a rich spiritual heritage.
“I sincerely assure you, Your Beatitude, that you can always count on the brotherly support of the Russian Orthodox Church,” Patriarch Kirill stated.
On this joyous occasion, Patriarch Kirill offered his prayers for Patriarch John X’s health, spiritual strength, and divine assistance, as well as for peace and stability for the Holy Antiochian Church.
Source: Patriarchate of Moscow / Translated by: Konstantinos Menyktas
