Patriarch Kirill of Moscow and All Russia expressed deep sorrow over the tragic event, addressing his condolences to various parties affected by the disaster.
On December 25, 2024, an Azerbaijan Airlines flight traveling from Baku to Grozny crashed near Aktau in western Kazakhstan. The tragic incident claimed the lives of many, while approximately 30 passengers survived.
In a message to the President of Azerbaijan, Ilham Aliyev, Patriarch Kirill conveyed his “heartfelt condolences” for the loss of Azerbaijani citizens, adding, “I ask that you convey words of comfort and support to the families and loved ones of the victims, as well as wishes for a speedy recovery to those injured.”
He also assured that prayers were being offered alongside the clergy of the Baku Diocese, asking the “Merciful Creator” to “comfort the hearts of the grieving and injured.”
To Sheikh ul-Islam Allahshukur Pashazade, Chairman of the Caucasus Muslims’ Board, Patriarch Kirill emphasized the shared grief between the Azerbaijani and Russian peoples, stating, “I pray for the speedy recovery of the injured, for comfort to the families and loved ones of the victims, and for strength for all those touched by this grief.”
Addressing the families and loved ones of the victims, the Patriarch expressed his profound sorrow, noting, “May the Merciful Lord grant eternal rest to the newly departed in His heavenly dwellings, strengthen the hands of the medical workers fighting for the lives of the injured, and bestow courage and resilience upon all those grieving and in need of comfort.”
The Patriarch’s messages underscored solidarity and compassion in the face of tragedy, calling for prayers and support for all those impacted by the devastating crash.
Source: patriarchia.ru
