Patriarch Kirill’s congratulatory message to the Primate of the Church of Constantinople

His Holiness Patriarch Kirill of Moscow and All Russia has sent the following congratulatory message to His Holiness Patriarch Bartholomew of Constantinople on the occasion of the 18th anniversary of his election and enthronement to the throne of the Orthodox Church of Constantinople.

Your Holiness,

Dear Brother and Concelebrant Beloved in the Lord:

I cordially congratulate Your Holiness on the anniversary of your election and enthronement to the Patriarchal throne of the Most Holy Orthodox Church of Constantinople.

The old chair of Constantinople, renowned for its numerous holy Primates, has been adorned by your primatial ministry for already eighteen years, continuing its historical life at today's difficult time.

I pray to God that He may strengthen Your Holiness physically and spiritually so that you may successfully continue your lofty patriarchal ministry for many good years.

With brotherly love in Christ,
+ Kirill
Patriarch of Moscow and All Russia