VATICAN CITY, JAN. 28, 2009 (Zenit.org).- Benedict XVI publicly affirmed his joy at the news of the election of Kirill as patriarch of Moscow and of All Russia.
The Pope stated today at the general audience, "I have received with joy the news of the election of Metropolitan Kirill as the new patriarch of Moscow and all Russia."
He continued, "I invoke upon him the light of the Holy Spirit for a generous service to the Russian Orthodox Church, entrusting him to the special protection of the Mother of God."
The Holy See published today a telegram that the Pope sent to congratulate Patriarch Kirill on Tuesday's election as head of the Russian Orthodox Church.
The message expressed the Pontiff's prayer that God will bless the new patriarch's efforts to "maintain communion among the Orthodox Churches" and "seek that fullness of communion which is the goal of Catholic-Orthodox collaboration and dialogue."
ZE09012805 - 2009-01-28
Permalink: http://www.zenit.org/article-24935?l=english
Pope Reiterates Joy at Russian Patriarch Election
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