From Diocese of Sourozh
The Primate of the Russian Orthodox Church congratulates Archbishop Anatoly of Kerch on the occasion of the thirty-fifth anniversary of his episcopal consecration
His Holiness Patriarch Alexis of Moscow and All Russia sent a letter of congratulation to the Most Reverend Archbishop Anatoly of Kerch, vicar of the Diocese of Sourozh, the text of which is reproduced below:
Most Reverend and Dear Vladyka,
With all my heart, I greet you on the occasion of this significant date, the thirty-fifth anniversary of your episcopal consecration.
You began your hierarchical ministry in difficult times when this undertaking called not only for unshakeable, ardent faith but also considerable courage. As Bishop of Vilnius and Lithuania, you shepherded the flock entrusted to your care with diligence and love, guarding it from every temptation and instructing it with the truth of the Gospel. Later, as Bishop of Zvenigorod, you were the Moscow patriarchal representative to Patriarch of Antioch and all the East. Later still, you became Bishop of Ufa and Sterlitamak.
For many years now, dear Vladyka, you have been living out your ecclesial obedience placed upon you by the higher Church authority. Remaining ever true to your calling, you execute your many duties with honour and dignity. It is for this reason that you are sincerely loved by both the clergy and the people, and your labours are recognised by society at large.
Your archpastoral ministry and its wide-ranging duties make great demands on your spiritual and physical strength and call for self-sacrifice and altruism. It is my hope that your diligent labours in establishing church life will continue to be a significant contribution to the task of strengthening church unity and consolidating good relations between the people of Great Britain and Russia.
On this auspicious day, I prayerfully wish you spiritual and bodily strength, wisdom, patience and God’s almighty help for your archpastoral labours, for the good of His Holy Church.
With love in the Lord,
+ Alexis, Patriarch of Moscow and All Russia
