On April 25, 2025, in the ceremonial hall of the Moscow Theological Academy, a solemn ceremony took place in which Patriarch Porfirije of Serbia was awarded an honorary doctorate by this prestigious theological institution.
The ceremony was opened by the Rector of the Moscow Theological Academy, Bishop Kirill of Sergiev Posad and Dmitrov, in the presence of Patriarch Kirill of Moscow.
In his address, Bishop Kirill emphasized that in today’s world, when people’s minds and hearts are constantly subjected to informational attacks, often of anti-Christian content, reli-gious theological thought in both Russia and Serbia is being revived for the benefit of the two nations. He highlighted the deep historical ties that unite Russians and Serbs, and noted that students from the Serbian Orthodox Church have traditionally made up a significant part of the foreign student body at the Moscow and St. Petersburg Theological Academies.
Following his speech, the formal decision to award the academic title of honorary Doctor of Theology to Patriarch Porfirije was announced. This honor recognized his distinguished scholarly and educational contributions to the development of theological science and the strengthening of relations between the Russian Orthodox Church and the Serbian Orthodox Church. The diploma was personally handed over by Patriarch Kirill.
In his response, Patriarch Porfirije expressed deep gratitude and humility, saying: “With profound respect, gratitude, and humility, I accept this exceptional honor – the honorary doctorate awarded to me by the renowned and esteemed Moscow Theological Academy under the Holy Trinity-St. Sergius Lavra. I consider this recognition one of the most significant milestones in my many years of theological and academic work, as well as in my educational ministry.”
The ceremony was attended by hierarchs and clergy from both Churches, Serbian diplomatic officials, and members of the Moscow Theological Academy.
Source: spc.sr
