Russian Orthodox Church and Rosgvardia Sign Agreement on Cooperation

OCP News Service – 15/03/2024

Moscow- Russia: The Russian Orthodox Church and the Federal Service of the National Guard Troops of the Russian Federation (Rosgvardia) signed a landmark agreement for cooperation on March 14,2024 at the Patriarchal and Synodal Residence in Moscow’s Danilov Monastery.

His Holiness Patriarch Kirill of Moscow and All Rus’ and Director of the Federal Service of the National Guard Troops of the Russian Federation – Commander-in-Chief of the National Guard Troops of the Russian Federation, Army General Viktor Vasilyevich Zolotov, signed the document.

The agreement focuses on spiritual education and patriotic upbringing for Rosgvardia personnel, their families, and those participating in the “special military operation” (referencing the ongoing Ukraine war).

Key points of the agreement:

• Priests will conduct religious services and sacraments for Rosgvardia personnel.
• The Church will offer psychological support to wounded soldiers and spiritual guidance to families.
• Rosgvardia will protect religious sites, secure church holidays, and assist clergy in the operation zone.

Importance of the Agreement:

Both parties highlighted the significance of the agreement. Patriarch Kirill expressed satisfaction with the formalization of a well-established collaboration. General Zolotov emphasized the importance of spiritual values for the Rosgvardia troops, especially those deployed in Ukraine.

Existing Ties and Future Cooperation:

The agreement builds upon a strong foundation established since Rosgvardia’s creation. The Russian Orthodox Church played a role in constructing the main temple of the National Guard troops and continues to provide spiritual support to personnel. The agreement formalizes this existing cooperation and paves the way for further collaboration.

Source:

OCP News Service