Patriarch Kirill’s congratulatory message to German Chancellor Angela Merkel on the occasion of the 20th anniversary of German Reunification
His Holiness Patriarch Kirill of Moscow and All Russia has sent the following congratulatory message to German Chancellor Angela Merkel on the occasion of the 20th anniversary of German Reunification:
Your Excellency,
Kindly accept my heartfelt congratulations on the occasion of the 20th anniversary of the German Reunification.
As a result of the tragic events of the 20th century, once united country was divided into two parts and the people of Germany found themselves on the opposite sides of the Berlin Wall. Its collapse became a sign of not only reunification of the German state but also success in overcoming the forceful division of the nation.
Celebrating this memorable date in her national history, Germany has also exerted great efforts for the integration of European nations. I hope that people in Europe will build their common home on the basis of peace and good-neighbourliness, taking into account the ages-old Christian heritage.
It is gratifying that the Federative Republic shows due respect for the Russian Orthodox Church. Our parishes, which are over two hundred, give spiritual support to many Orthodox people living in and visiting Germany. The Moscow Patriarchate maintains cooperation with Catholic and Protestant communities in your country for preserving and strengthening Christian values in Europe.
I wish you, dear Ms. Chancellor, good health, physical strength and success in the important service for the good of the country, and to the people of German I wish peace and prosperity.
Respectfully,
+ KIRILL,
Patriarch of Moscow and All Russia