Primate of the Russian Orthodox Church expresses concern over escalation of violence in some Arab countries
His Holiness Patriarch Kirill of Moscow and All Russia expressed grave concern over recent events in the Middle East and Northern Africa.
Speaking about “dangerous signs of political chaos” in some Arab countries, the primate of the Russian Orthodox Church noted with anxiety that these disorders have already caused suffering and grief to many people.
“If someone gets an idea to change political leaders in this way, this scheme is very dangerous. It is easy to agitate people and bring them to confrontation. We know on the example of Russia what bit can entail. We know that it is easy to provoke people to conflict, but how difficult it to build a new life on the ruins!
“Therefore, we pray for the countries of the Middle East and Northern Africa, being aware that the Lord brings them to the period of hard trial. It is very important today to pray and to support the Patriarchates in the East that have existed for over one hundred and fifty thousand years. Many various events had happened in that part of the globe, but the Local Churches, the great Patriarchates of the East have lived under any political circumstances and, we believe, will live till the end of the time. The Russian Church will do whatever she can to support our sisters – the Local Orthodox Church in this difficult time,” His Holiness said.
His Holiness Patriarch Kirill prayerfully wished God’s help to people in the countries of the Middle East and Northern Africa, including the followers of the Local Orthodox Churches, and expressed his hope for the end of bloodshed in the nearest future.