His Holiness Patriarch Kirill congratulates Pope Leo XIV on his election to the See of Rome

DECR Communication Service, 09/05/2025

His Holiness Patriarch Kirill of Moscow and All Rus' sent congratulations to Pope Leo XIV on his election to the See of the Roman Catholic Church.

His Holiness LEO XIV
Pope of Rome

Your Holiness,

Please accept my heartfelt congratulations on your election to the See of the Bishops of Rome!

You begin your ministry as Primate of the Roman Catholic Church at a special moment in history associated with a number of challenges facing the civilisation, as well as with certain signs of hope. In this context, the relationship between the Christian East and the Christian West acquires particular importance for the future of the world. It is my sincere hope that with your participation relations between our two Churches will be developing steadily, so that we could bear joint witness to Christ and reveal to humankind the imperishable beauty of life based on God’s commandments.

The name you have chosen refers to one of your great predecessors – Saint Leo the Pope of Rome. This saint pleasing unto God, who was a defender of the Christian community in Rome against the incursions of barbarians and an upholder of the teaching on the fullness of our Lord Jesus Christ’s Divinity and humanity, building up unity in truth, is equally venerated by both Catholic and Orthodox Christians. May he inspire you in the demanding and responsible service ahead.

May the All-Merciful Lord give you strength in body and spirit, preserving you in good health for many years!

With love in the Lord,

+KIRILL
PATRIARCH OF MOSCOW AND ALL RUS'

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His Holiness Patriarch Kirill congratulates Pope Leo XIV on his election to the See of Rome

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