His Holiness Patriarch Kirill of Moscow and All Russia greets Queen Elizabeth II of Great Britain with her birthday

His Holiness Patriarch Kirill of Moscow and All Russia congratulated Queen Elizabeth II of the United Kingdom and Northern Ireland on her birthday.

Your Majesty,

Kindly accept my congratulations on the auspicious event of your birthday.

For over half a century you have represented the symbol of the British monarchy, its traditions and centuries-old foundations. By your activity you have won the well-deserved respect and love of the people.

Among your subjects are also the faithful of the Russian Orthodox Church, which is represented in Great Britain by the Diocese of Sourozh. The Moscow Patriarchate has maintained good relations with the Church of England, of which you are the head. I hope for fruitful development of relations between our nations as well.

I wish you sound health, well-being and God’s help in your important service.

With profound respect,

+ KIRILL

Patriarch of Moscow and All Russia