By Kostas Onisenko
In an interview with the Russian channel “Россия 24,” Metropolitan Hilarion of Volokolamsk, chairman of the Moscow Patriarchate’s Department for External Church Relations, referred to the good relations with the new Patriarch of Serbia, Porfirije.
“I have known him personally for many years. We have met in Serbia several times, and in Croatia during my visits. Our relations are very warm, very friendly.”
Metropolitan Hilarion hoped that the relations between the two churches to remain equally “fraternal” and “productive,” emphasizing that “we really need each other’s support.” “I think it is a worthy election that will contribute to the further strengthening of our good relations,” he stressed.
The Russian Metropolitan reminded that Patriarch Kirill was the first to congratulate Patriarch Porfirije on his election and praised the head of the Serbian Orthodox Church, saying that he is “a widely recognized church leader.” I think this election will be positive not only in Serbia but in the whole Orthodox world.”