His Holiness Kirill, Patriarch of Moscow and All Russia, has greeted the Primate of the Orthodox Church of Antioch on the day of St. John the Theologian.
Your Beatitude,
Beloved in the Lord Brother and Concelebrant at the Altar of God!
I cordially greet you on your name day.
Wishing to become like your heavenly patron, St. John the Theologian, Apostle and Evangelist, you have zealously preached to those who are near and who are far the boundless riches of Christ (Eph. 3:8). At this time so full of sorrows for our flock, you like a good shepherd (Jn. 10:11), live together with the suffering people of God, showing your paternal concern for them.
May the All-Generous Lord, through the intercession of His beloved disciple, renew your spiritual and physical resources that you may continue your fruitful work for the good of the Holy Church, giving you abundant help in the task of the Gospel’s witness.
Many good years be to you.
With brotherly love in Christ,
+ Kirill
Patriarch of Moscow and All Russia