Patriarch Kirill of Moscow and All Russia congratulates Pope Leo XIV on his election
Patriarch Kirill of Moscow and All Russia congratulated Pope Leo XIV on his election. This was announced on Friday, May 9, on the website of the Russian Orthodox Church (ROC).
"You are beginning your ministry as Primate of the Roman Catholic Church at a special historical moment associated with both a number of civilizational challenges and certain signs of hope. In this context, the relationship between the Christian East and the West acquires special significance for the destinies of the world," the Patriarch said.
He expressed the hope that with the participation of the new pontiff, relations between the churches will steadily develop.
"The name you have chosen refers to the personality of one of your great predecessors, St. Leo, the Pope of Rome. Defender of the Christian community of Rome in the face of barbaric invasions, champion of the doctrine of the fullness of the Divinity and humanity of the Lord Jesus Christ and creator of unity in truth, may this saint of God, revered equally by Catholics and Orthodox, inspire you in the difficult and responsible service ahead," he concluded.
Earlier in the day, it was reported that the new Pope Leo XIV explained his choice of name by saying that the world is now in an era of revolution, similar to the reign of Leo XIII. Leo XIII was an Italian religious figure, he held the post of head of the Holy See from 1878 to 1903.
Cardinal Robert Prevost from the United States was elected the new pope on May 8. He is the first American cardinal with Latin American roots, prefect of the Dicastery for Bishops, and a representative of the Augustinian Order. As pontiff, he took the name Leo XIV.
Russian President Vladimir Putin has congratulated the new pope on his election. He also wished success in fulfilling his "lofty mission, as well as good health and well-being."
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