President Vladimir Putin invited
Patriarch Theophilos to join celebrations of the 1025th anniversary of
the Baptism of Russia. "I hope to see you during celebrations of the
1025th anniversary of the Baptism of Russia," Putin said. He wished the
patriarch of Jerusalem "a useful stay in Russia." The patriarch of
Jerusalem has never been in Russia on a visit.
Patriarch Kirill in turn said that
Theophilos's visit was of great importance, noting that, "this meeting
will definitely promote relations between the two patriarchates."
The
Russian patriarch also said that these contacts will hopefully
"facilitate all the good initiatives Russia has been implementing for
the sake of peace in the Middle East."
"It is very important that
peace, prosperity and tranquility set in the Holy Land, blessed by
God's feet," the Patriarch Kirill said.
Patriarch Theophilos said
his visit to Russia was of great historical significance. "This visit
is a seal that cements relations between our churches, and between the
godly Russian people and the godly people of Palestine," he said.
On behalf of the Christians of Jordan, Palestine and the Brotherhood of the Holy Sepulcher,
Patriarch Theophilos thanked Putin "for an active interest in the Holy
Land and its sacred places, and in the cause of peace in the Middle
East."
Putin's recent visit to Israel, Palestine and Jordan "is
of enormous importance from the political and religious points of view,"
he said.
"We pray for you as a leader who attaches primary
importance to the cause of strengthening human and Orthodox values," he
told Putin.
No comments:
Post a Comment