Patriarch Kirill of Moscow has decided to honor the leader of the Caucasian Muslims, Sheikh-ul-Islam and Grand Mufti Allahshukur Pashazade, with one of the Russian Orthodox Church’s highest distinctions. This announcement was made by Metropolitan Anthony of Volokolamsk during a reception on Monday, August 26, celebrating the 75th jubilee of the prominent Muslim leader.
A delegation from the Russian Orthodox Church, led by Metropolitan Anthony, arrived in Baku on August 25 with the blessing of Patriarch Kirill. The delegation included Archimandrite Filaret (Boulekov), Vice-President of the Department for External Church Relations (DECR), and Fr. Nikolai Vasin, Secretary of the DECR.
During the reception, Metropolitan Anthony conveyed Patriarch Kirill’s warm congratulations to Sheikh-ul-Islam, highlighting the longstanding and valued relationship between the Moscow Patriarchate and the Caucasus Muslim Council. The Patriarch’s message emphasized the Sheikh’s responsiveness to the needs and challenges of his religious community, which has earned respect among spiritual leaders worldwide.
In recognition of Sheikh-ul-Islam’s contributions to fostering relations between the peoples of Russia and Azerbaijan, Patriarch Kirill decided to bestow upon him the Order of Saint Alexios, Metropolitan of Kyiv, Moscow, and All Russia (1st degree). This prestigious award is one of the highest honors within the Russian Orthodox Church. In addition to the award, Metropolitan Anthony presented the Sheikh with a bouquet of flowers as a personal gift from the Patriarch.
The reception also provided an opportunity for Sheikh-ul-Islam to engage in a warm and meaningful conversation with the delegation from the Moscow Patriarchate, discussing various topics of mutual interest.
This event follows a viral video featuring Russian President Vladimir Putin receiving and kissing a Quran alongside Chechen leader and close ally Ramzan Kadyrov, further highlighting the significance of interfaith relations in the region.
Source: Moscow Patriarchate / Translated from Russian: Konstantinos Menyktas