Greetings by the Patriarch to the Russian athletes who participated in the 16th Summer Paralympic Games in Tokyo

His Holiness Patriarch Kirill of Moscow and All Russia sent a message of greetings to the Russian participants in the 16th Summer Paralympics in Tokyo

Dear brothers and sisters!

I cordially greet you and congratulate on the wonderful results achieved at the 16th Summer Paralympics in Tokyo.

You have demonstrated your athletic skills at a high professional level; you have represented our country with honor and worthily continued the traditions of Russian paralympic movement.

The new world records you have set, the medals you have won thanks to hard work and enormous perseverance, the power of spirit and will – they all vividly witness to the truth that bodily imperfections do not restrict human abilities in striving for victory, especially the victory over one’s own self. Each of you has proved that human beings are capable of overcoming seemingly insurmountable obstacles. I know that many athletes are deeply religious people, and that their faith is what fortifies their will to win.

I am sure that your example gives inspiration to those who are in a difficult situation now; it empowers them with confidence and helps not to despair.

Sharing in the joy of your achievements, I invoke God’s blessing on you, your families, your coaches and teachers.

Taking this opportunity I would like also to congratulate the paralympic athletes from Ukraine, Belarus, Kazakhstan, Moldova and other brotherly countries.

May the All-Bountiful Lord strengthen you spiritually and bodily and grant His support on all the roads of your future life.

+KIRILL,
PATRIARCH OF MOSCOW AND ALL RUSSIA

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Greetings by the Patriarch to the Russian athletes who participated in the 16th Summer Paralympic Games in Tokyo

Patriarch

Department Chairman

Sermons

Patriarch

Department Chairman

Sermons