The Russian Orthodox Church expressed its deep appreciation to the Serbian Orthodox Church for its steadfast support regarding the Ukrainian ecclesiastical issue, particularly concerning the Ukrainian Orthodox Church (UOC) under Metropolitan Onufriy. This gratitude was conveyed during Metropolitan Anthony of Volokolamsk’s visit to Novi Sad, Serbia, on Saturday, November 16. The strong bond between the two Churches was further emphasized by a phone conversation between Patriarch Kirill of Moscow and Patriarch Porfirije of Serbia on the same day.
Metropolitan Anthony’s Visit to Serbia
Metropolitan Anthony of Volokolamsk, the head of the Department for External Church Relations of the Moscow Patriarchate, took part in the Patriarchal Divine Liturgy presided over by Patriarch Porfirije at the Cathedral of St. George in Novi Sad. Following the Liturgy, a memorial service was held to honor the victims of a recent railway tragedy in the region.
During his visit, Metropolitan Anthony met with Serbia’s Prime Minister, Miloš Vučević, where he conveyed Patriarch Kirill’s appreciation for the Serbian Church’s unwavering support. He highlighted the solidarity shown by Patriarch Porfirije and the Serbian hierarchy towards the UOC amidst its challenges. The discussions also focused on enhancing the bilateral relations between the two Churches.
Phone Conversation Between the Patriarchs
Later that day, Patriarch Kirill of Moscow and Patriarch Porfirije of Serbia had a phone conversation, reaffirming their close relationship. Patriarch Kirill updated his Serbian counterpart on recent developments and challenges faced by the Russian Orthodox Church. Patriarch Porfirije, on the other hand, emphasized the historical and enduring connection between the Serbian and Russian peoples and reiterated the Serbian Church’s strong brotherly support for the Russian Orthodox Church.
Translated from Russian: Konstantinos Menyktas