In his Christmas sermon, Patriarch Kirill, head of the Russian Orthodox Church, called on Russians to defend themselves against enemy attacks by strengthening their faith. “Today the Fatherland is going through a difficult part of its historical path,” he said during Mass on Sunday evening.
Russia must defend itself against external attacks. This requires a strong economy and a strong army, but also a firm Orthodox faith, Kirill said at the Cathedral of Christ the Savior in Moscow.
Putin’s confidante
The 77-year-old is considered a close confidante of Russian President Vladimir Putin and a supporter of his war of aggression against Ukraine. In a congratulatory telegram on Sunday before Orthodox Christmas, Kirill spoke of a “fruitful long-term cooperation between the church and the state leadership.”
This should continue to “contribute to the cohesion of the people, the spiritual, moral and patriotic education of the youth, and the creation of peace and social harmony,” the church leader said.
The Orthodox Church celebrates Christmas on January 6 and 7. On Christmas Eve, Cyril had already declared that the right faith would promote victory. Just a few days ago, the Russian Orthodox Church, which is considered very close to the state, dismissed Moscow Archpriest Alexei Uminski from office for his criticism of Russia’s war of aggression.
Source: Krone
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