PATRIARCH KIRILL URGES SIDES IN UKRAINIAN CONFLICT TO AVOID CIVILIAN CASUALTIES
Patriarch of Moscow and all-Rus Kirill called for avoidance of casualties among the civilian population within the zone of conflict in Ukraine.
"I urge all sides of the conflict to do everything possible in order to avoid casualties among the civilian residents," says the patriarch's appeal, which was published Thursday evening on the website of the Russian Orthodox Church.
Patriarch Kirill declared that he feels the sufferings of the people caused by events with deep and heartfelt pain. "As patriarch of all-Rus and primate of the church whose flock is located in Russia, Ukraine, and other countries, I empathize with all who are affected by the disaster," the patriarch writes.
He appealed to bishops, pastors, monastics, and laity to provide comprehensive assistance for all who suffer, including refugees and those without shelter and means of subsistence.
Patriarch Kirill recalled that the Russian and Ukrainian peoples have a common history of many centuries, dating back to the baptism of Rus by the holy equal-to-apostles Prince Vladimir. "I believe that this God-given identity will help to overcome the divisions and contradictions that have arisen and led to the current conflict," the primate writes.
He urged the full plenitude of the Russian church to raise profound and fervent prayer for the speedy restoration of peace. (tr. by PDS, posted 25 February 2022)
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