Pope Writes to Patriarch Alexis II

(30 May 08 - RV) Pope Benedict XVI has written to Patriarch Alexis II, expressing esteem for his ministry in the Russian Orthodox Church and restating his appreciation for the Patriarch’s commitment to fostering relations between Catholics and Orthodox.

The President of the Pontifical Council for Promoting Christian Unity, Cardinal Walter Kasper delivered the letter during a recent trip to Russia.

In the letter, Pope Benedict says he reflects on the experience of growing closeness between himself and Patriarch Alexis, a joy he says is accompanied by the shared desire to promote authentic Christian values and to witness to our Lord in ever deeper communion.