His Holiness Patriarch Kirill attends reception given on behalf of Moldova’s leaders

On 8 September 2013, a solemn reception was given in honour of His Holiness Patriarch Kirill of Moscow and All Russia, who is on a primatial visit to the Orthodox Church of Moldova, on behalf of the leaders of the Republic of Moldova. The reception took place at the Palace of the Republic in Chişinău.

Present at the reception were members of the official delegation of the Russian Orthodox Church; Metropolitan Vladimir of Chişinău and All Moldova; the Moldovan, Ukrainian and Russian Orthodox bishops and clergymen; Mr. Nicolae Timofti, President of Moldova; Mr. Iurie Leancă, Prime Minister of the country; Mr. Igor Corman, President of the Parliament of the Republic of Moldova; all ex-presidents of Moldova; and representatives of political parties.

President Nicolae Timofti warmly greeted His Holiness and noted the importance of his primatial visit for the people of Moldova.

The Primate of the Russian Orthodox Church said in response:

“I thank you once again, [Mr. President], for attaching such importance to… moral values. I am deeply convinced that no external influence can force these values out of the heart of the Moldovan people. This nation has spiritual strength which is a guarantee of the state’s prosperity.”

His Holiness Patriarch Kirill wished the President of Moldova, the Government, the Parliament and Moldovan politicians God’s help in their work and strength from the Lord to follow the path that would lead to the genuine development of the Republic.