Serbian Patriarch kyr Porfirije meets with Patriarch of Moscow and All Russia kyr Kirill
His Holiness Serbian Patriarch kyr Porfirije, currently on a multi-day visit to Moscow with a delegation from the Serbian Orthodox Church, met today with the Head of the Russian Orthodox Church, His Holiness Patriarch of Moscow and All Russia kyr Kirill, at the Patriarchal and Synodal Residence in the Danilov Monastery.
Representing the Russian Orthodox Church at the meeting were: Metropolitan of Volokolamsk kyr Anthony, Chairman of the Department for External Church Relations of the Moscow Patriarchate; Bishop of Ramensk kyr Alexy, Personal Secretary to Patriarch Kirill; Protopresbyter Nikolai Balashov, Patriarchal advisor; Protopresbyter Igor Yakimchuk, Deputy Chairman of the Department for External Church Relations; Hegumen Theophan (Lukyanov), Chief of Protocol of the Department; and Mr. Andrey Khoshev, associate of the Secretariat for Inter-Orthodox Relations.
Accompanying the Serbian Patriarch were: Archbishop of Novi Sad and Metropolitan of Bačka kyr Irinej; Bishop of Remesiana kyr Stefan, Head of the Representation of the Serbian Orthodox Church in Moscow; Archimandrite Hariton, Superior of Kovilj Monastery; Protopresbyter Đorđe Stojisavljević, Head of the Patriarch's Cabinet; Protodeacon Radomir Vrućinić, Rector of the Saint Sava Seminary in Belgrade; Protodeacon Radojica Žagran; Archdeacon Justin, monk of Kovilj Monastery; Deacon Ivan Vasiljević; and subdeacons Dejan Nakić and Vladimir Jelić.
Prior to the meeting, the two Church leaders visited the chapel in the Patriarchal residence. Warmly welcoming his guest and expressing fraternal respect, Patriarch Kirill emphasized that relations between the Russian and Serbian Orthodox Churches have never been marred by even the slightest shadow of discord, but have consistently been characterized by mutual understanding, love, and brotherly support. “This is not by chance. Our peoples are not only related by language, culture, and history, but our Churches have also endured great suffering throughout history, especially during the persecutions of the 20th century,” noted Patriarch Kirill, adding:
“This historical experience, originating from the depths of the centuries that have passed, as well as the experience obtained from the last century, unite our Churches, especially in understanding the nature of today’s pastoral mission directed at modern man. Although we are no longer subject to the kinds of persecution seen under totalitarian regimes, the boundary between church and secular life today brings its own dangers. People are offered false ideals and goals centered on material comfort and high levels of conformism, often sidelining spiritual and moral values rooted in Christianity. That is why united missionary and theological efforts of our brotherly Churches are particularly necessary today.”
Patriarch Kirill wished Patriarch Porfirije divine help in his patriarchal service for the benefit of the Serbian Church, the Serbian people, and all of Orthodoxy.
“I am glad we are together today in Moscow, in the joy of the Resurrection of our Lord Jesus Christ, Who is the Resurrection of mankind and of each one of us – if we have faith, humility, and hope in God. There have always been trials and challenges, but the Resurrection of Christ is a true and eternal reality, now and forever and unto the ages of ages,” said the Head of the Serbian Orthodox Church.
Patriarch Porfirije emphasized that the good relationship between the Russian and Serbian Orthodox Churches is an excellent example for all Orthodox faithful. “Thank you for your love, and may God grant good health and help from the Lord to you and your associates, bishops, clergy, and all the Orthodox people of Russia. Christ is Risen!” said Patriarch Porfirije to Patriarch Kirill.
During the brotherly meeting, Patriarch Kirill especially highlighted the significance of this visit taking place during Bright Week: “Today’s meeting is unique in that we are celebrating the Risen Christ together. I believe this gives a special tone and depth to the relationship between our Churches. It is tied to our shared history, cultural kinship, and common goals. We enjoy a steady brotherly relationship with Your Holiness, but personal and confidential meetings like this carry special significance,” said Patriarch Kirill.
The Primate of the Russian Orthodox Church warmly congratulated Serbian Patriarch Porfirije on being awarded the honorary doctorate of the Moscow Theological Academy: “This decision by the Academic Council of our oldest theological school is a testament to the high authority of Your Holiness as both a theologian and a Church leader. I am familiar with your exceptional personal contributions to the development of spiritual and religious education in your country, your dedicated focus on this area, and your tireless efforts toward the spiritual enlightenment of your flock,” concluded His Holiness Patriarch kyr Kirill.
Patriarch Kirill also noted the significant role played by Patriarch Porfirije in deepening cooperation between the two Churches in theological education and student exchanges, and expressed deep respect for his counterpart as “a wise leader and the closest brother among all the Heads of local Orthodox Churches, as our Churches are united not only by faith but by shared historical paths, culture, and often a common perspective on global developments.”
During the discussion, it was noted that previous honorary doctorates from Russian Orthodox theological institutions had been awarded to memorable predecessors of Patriarch Porfirije on the Serbian Arch-hierarchical throne – Serbian Patriarchs Gavrilo (†1950) and German (†1991). “In awarding this honorary doctorate, I see a continuation of that glorious tradition which strengthens the ties between our Churches,” concluded Patriarch Kirill.
His Holiness Serbian Patriarch Porfirije, speaking in his own name, expressed gratitude for the honorary title, saying he saw it as “a sign of love between our Churches and our peoples.”
“Theology, for us, represents life itself, and I personally believe that education is of utmost importance in the life of the Church. As you mentioned, in today’s world partial and often even anti-Gospel spiritual values are being accepted. We are aware that even some theological schools sometimes fall under the influence of secular opinions and certain ideologies, which can often be anti-Christian. Therefore, I believe it is extremely important that theological education and our spiritual schools remain firmly within the Church’s vision – that it not be mere academic learning disconnected from liturgical and Church life. As the saying goes: ‘If you wish to be a theologian, you must pray – and if you pray, you are already a theologian.’”
As Patriarch Kirill noted, by awarding the honorary doctorate to Patriarch Porfirije, the Russian Orthodox Church honors him as a distinguished Church leader and theologian. “You combine theological effort and ecclesiastical education with practical pastoral leadership, caring for your Church and your people,” said Patriarch Kirill.
The discussion also touched on a wide range of topics, including pan-Orthodox unity, inter-Church relations, and other matters of general interest.
At the conclusion of the meeting, the Heads of the two Churches exchanged befitting gifts.
Today was reserved for official discussions between the two Primates and the members of their delegations, which will continue until the evening.
Representing the Russian Orthodox Church at the meeting were: Metropolitan of Volokolamsk kyr Anthony, Chairman of the Department for External Church Relations of the Moscow Patriarchate; Bishop of Ramensk kyr Alexy, Personal Secretary to Patriarch Kirill; Protopresbyter Nikolai Balashov, Patriarchal advisor; Protopresbyter Igor Yakimchuk, Deputy Chairman of the Department for External Church Relations; Hegumen Theophan (Lukyanov), Chief of Protocol of the Department; and Mr. Andrey Khoshev, associate of the Secretariat for Inter-Orthodox Relations.
Accompanying the Serbian Patriarch were: Archbishop of Novi Sad and Metropolitan of Bačka kyr Irinej; Bishop of Remesiana kyr Stefan, Head of the Representation of the Serbian Orthodox Church in Moscow; Archimandrite Hariton, Superior of Kovilj Monastery; Protopresbyter Đorđe Stojisavljević, Head of the Patriarch's Cabinet; Protodeacon Radomir Vrućinić, Rector of the Saint Sava Seminary in Belgrade; Protodeacon Radojica Žagran; Archdeacon Justin, monk of Kovilj Monastery; Deacon Ivan Vasiljević; and subdeacons Dejan Nakić and Vladimir Jelić.
Prior to the meeting, the two Church leaders visited the chapel in the Patriarchal residence. Warmly welcoming his guest and expressing fraternal respect, Patriarch Kirill emphasized that relations between the Russian and Serbian Orthodox Churches have never been marred by even the slightest shadow of discord, but have consistently been characterized by mutual understanding, love, and brotherly support. “This is not by chance. Our peoples are not only related by language, culture, and history, but our Churches have also endured great suffering throughout history, especially during the persecutions of the 20th century,” noted Patriarch Kirill, adding:
“This historical experience, originating from the depths of the centuries that have passed, as well as the experience obtained from the last century, unite our Churches, especially in understanding the nature of today’s pastoral mission directed at modern man. Although we are no longer subject to the kinds of persecution seen under totalitarian regimes, the boundary between church and secular life today brings its own dangers. People are offered false ideals and goals centered on material comfort and high levels of conformism, often sidelining spiritual and moral values rooted in Christianity. That is why united missionary and theological efforts of our brotherly Churches are particularly necessary today.”
Patriarch Kirill wished Patriarch Porfirije divine help in his patriarchal service for the benefit of the Serbian Church, the Serbian people, and all of Orthodoxy.
“I am glad we are together today in Moscow, in the joy of the Resurrection of our Lord Jesus Christ, Who is the Resurrection of mankind and of each one of us – if we have faith, humility, and hope in God. There have always been trials and challenges, but the Resurrection of Christ is a true and eternal reality, now and forever and unto the ages of ages,” said the Head of the Serbian Orthodox Church.
Patriarch Porfirije emphasized that the good relationship between the Russian and Serbian Orthodox Churches is an excellent example for all Orthodox faithful. “Thank you for your love, and may God grant good health and help from the Lord to you and your associates, bishops, clergy, and all the Orthodox people of Russia. Christ is Risen!” said Patriarch Porfirije to Patriarch Kirill.
During the brotherly meeting, Patriarch Kirill especially highlighted the significance of this visit taking place during Bright Week: “Today’s meeting is unique in that we are celebrating the Risen Christ together. I believe this gives a special tone and depth to the relationship between our Churches. It is tied to our shared history, cultural kinship, and common goals. We enjoy a steady brotherly relationship with Your Holiness, but personal and confidential meetings like this carry special significance,” said Patriarch Kirill.
The Primate of the Russian Orthodox Church warmly congratulated Serbian Patriarch Porfirije on being awarded the honorary doctorate of the Moscow Theological Academy: “This decision by the Academic Council of our oldest theological school is a testament to the high authority of Your Holiness as both a theologian and a Church leader. I am familiar with your exceptional personal contributions to the development of spiritual and religious education in your country, your dedicated focus on this area, and your tireless efforts toward the spiritual enlightenment of your flock,” concluded His Holiness Patriarch kyr Kirill.
Patriarch Kirill also noted the significant role played by Patriarch Porfirije in deepening cooperation between the two Churches in theological education and student exchanges, and expressed deep respect for his counterpart as “a wise leader and the closest brother among all the Heads of local Orthodox Churches, as our Churches are united not only by faith but by shared historical paths, culture, and often a common perspective on global developments.”
During the discussion, it was noted that previous honorary doctorates from Russian Orthodox theological institutions had been awarded to memorable predecessors of Patriarch Porfirije on the Serbian Arch-hierarchical throne – Serbian Patriarchs Gavrilo (†1950) and German (†1991). “In awarding this honorary doctorate, I see a continuation of that glorious tradition which strengthens the ties between our Churches,” concluded Patriarch Kirill.
His Holiness Serbian Patriarch Porfirije, speaking in his own name, expressed gratitude for the honorary title, saying he saw it as “a sign of love between our Churches and our peoples.”
“Theology, for us, represents life itself, and I personally believe that education is of utmost importance in the life of the Church. As you mentioned, in today’s world partial and often even anti-Gospel spiritual values are being accepted. We are aware that even some theological schools sometimes fall under the influence of secular opinions and certain ideologies, which can often be anti-Christian. Therefore, I believe it is extremely important that theological education and our spiritual schools remain firmly within the Church’s vision – that it not be mere academic learning disconnected from liturgical and Church life. As the saying goes: ‘If you wish to be a theologian, you must pray – and if you pray, you are already a theologian.’”
As Patriarch Kirill noted, by awarding the honorary doctorate to Patriarch Porfirije, the Russian Orthodox Church honors him as a distinguished Church leader and theologian. “You combine theological effort and ecclesiastical education with practical pastoral leadership, caring for your Church and your people,” said Patriarch Kirill.
The discussion also touched on a wide range of topics, including pan-Orthodox unity, inter-Church relations, and other matters of general interest.
At the conclusion of the meeting, the Heads of the two Churches exchanged befitting gifts.
Today was reserved for official discussions between the two Primates and the members of their delegations, which will continue until the evening.