The Moscow Patriarchate is concerned with the future of Orthodox shrines in Kosovo

Moscow, February 29, Interfax - The Russian Orthodox Church is concerned with the future of Orthodox shrines in Kosovo as the region unilaterally declared its independence. When asked by the Vesti TV channel if there is a danger to lose them in result of Kosovo's independence, head of the Moscow Patriarchate Department for External Church Relations Metropolitan Kirill said: "Sure, there is such a danger."

"It's impossible to number all the shrines. Very many churches and monasteries dated back to the 14th, 15th and16th centuries. They are under UNESCO protection. But we know how insecure this protection is. Monasteries set on fire, churches destroyed," the Metropolitan said.

"And if this world heritage is demolished in the center of Europe in the 21st century, then what's it all about? What criteria of international policy and future European society can be discussed, if greatest memorials would be destroyed?" Metropolitan Kirill said.

According to him, "it's the greatest challenge to those who control this process in Kosovo."

Source: www.interfax-religion.com