Moscow, May 25, 2012
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The head of state thanked the archbishop for making his first visit to Russia on the Day of Slavic Literature and the Name Day of Patriarch Kirill. “On such a day it is most clear how deep the spiritual roots we share are,” Putin said.
For his part, Archbishop Hieronymos said that according to the church protocol, he was making “a peaceful formal visit,” which involves bringing peace.
“Today is such a time when all people are wishing peace,” he said.
The Archbishop of Athens also said that the date of his visit to Russia was chosen because it is a holy day for all Christians. “Our peoples share a centuries-long history, but we are tied most by the Orthodox faith,” he added.
