Serbian Patriarch Porfirije Honored with Prestigious Russian Church Order for Strengthening Bilateral Ties

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DECR , spc.rs & OCP News Service – 26/04/2025

Moscow- Russia: In a significant recognition of his profound contributions to the Orthodox Church and theological scholarship, His Holiness Patriarch Porfirije of Serbia was honored with two prestigious accolades during his visit to Russia on Friday, April 25th, 2025. He was presented with the Order of the Equal-to-the-Apostles Prince Vladimir (1st degree) by His Holiness Patriarch Kirill of Moscow and All Russia for his dedicated efforts in strengthening the fraternal ties between the Russian and Serbian Orthodox Churches.

The Order of the Equal-to-the-Apostles Prince Vladimir is among the highest distinctions bestowed by the Russian Orthodox Church, recognizing outstanding service and contributions to inter-church relations and Christian values. The 1st degree signifies the utmost level of this honor, underscoring Patriarch Porfirije‘s significant impact on fostering unity between the two sister churches.

Later in the day, Patriarch Porfirije received a further distinguished honor from the Moscow Theological Academy, where he was awarded the degree of Honorary Doctor of Theology. This academic recognition celebrated his “recognized scientific and educational contribution to the development of theological science and the strengthening of ties between the Russian and Serbian Orthodox Churches.” In his acceptance speech, delivered in Russian, Patriarch Porfirije spoke eloquently about the inseparable link between prayer and theology and its crucial role in contemporary society. This dual recognition – both the high church order and the academic doctorate – underscores the deep respect and appreciation held for Patriarch Porfirije within the Russian Orthodox Church and its academic institutions.

Source:

OCP News Service