Russian President Vladimir Putin, while in Sochi, on the phone congratulated his Holiness Patriarch of Moscow and all Russia Kirill, according to patriarhiei.
Between the head of state and head of the Russian Orthodox Church had a warm conversation, during which Vladimir Putin wished his Holiness every success and good health, noting the constant concern of His Holiness on the preservation of the spiritual heritage of Russia.
His Holiness Patriarch Kirill warmly thanked Vladimir Putin for the congratulations and the continued support from the President of the fruitful cooperation of Church and state.
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On the same day, Russian Prime Minister Dmitry Medvedev arrived at the Patriarch’s residence in Peredelkino, where he wished him health and strength to serve the Church and society, reports Interfax-Religion.
He expressed hope that Patriarch Kirill will continue as successfully conduct their charitable work.
In response, the Primate of the Russian Orthodox Church said that he highly appreciated the relations with the government and cooperation on vital issues.
He noted that he was satisfied with “the remarkable constructive interaction of the government with the Church.”
His Holiness on 20 November 2018 turned 72 years old.