Archbishop of Cyprus awarded “Pride of Russia” medal
FAMAGUSTA GAZETTE
22/3/2012
Russian “Pride of the Homeland” foundation has awarded Archbishop of Cyprus Chrysostomos II with “Pride of Russia” medal. President of the foundation Nikolai Antonski conveyed to the Archbishop the gratitude of Russian President Vladimir Putin and the Russian people.
The Archbishop thanked him for the honor, saying that he feels that this expression of love and honor does not belong only to him but to the whole Church of Cyprus and its members.
“Ties of spirit are much stronger than ties of blood and I have never restricted myself within the limits of the Cypriot Church”, the Archbishop said, pointing out that he is considering the best interest of all Orthodox around the world.
The Archbishop said that if there are difficulties and problems in relations between the Orthodox Churches, this is because many people raise first the nationality of their local Church and secondly their Christian identity.
The head of the Church of Cyprus expressed to the President and the Prime Minister of Russia his appreciation for the support of the country to Cyprus’ national issue.
On his part Antonski conveyed to the Archbishop the gratitude of all 35 000 members of the Foundation.
“As a representative of the newly elected President Putin I also convey to you his gratitude as well as the gratitude of all 140 million Russian people”, he said.
“Your work is great and appreciated not only in Cyprus but also throughout the Orthodox world, ” he said.
Antonski referred to the Archbishop’s great contribution to the spiritual unity of the people around the world, the strengthening of friendship between Cyprus and Russia, the establishment and development of friendship around the world, his persistent work to combat national and religious hatred between different communities and his struggle for Cyprus’ integrity and peace. — (FG/Agencies)
