MOSCOW: November 30, 2020
Patriarchal greetings to Metropolitan Mark of Berlin and Germany on the fortieth anniversary of his episcopal consecration

To His Eminence Metropolitan Mark of Berlin and Germany

Your Eminence:

Please accept my congratulations on the 40th anniversary of your episcopal consecration.

In your youth, you converted to Orthodox Christianity, to which your study of Slavic languages and literature greatly contributed, and also your friendship with Russian emigres. Having come to love God with all thy heart, and with all thy soul, and with all thy mind (Mark 12:30), you decided to dedicate your life entirely to Him, making your monastic vows and accepting the priestly rank. Beholding your zeal, the Creator and Caregiver of the world elevated you to your higher level of hierarchal service.

Over recent decades, you have devoted no small efforts to the development of church life in the region entrusted to you. Having archpastoral care for the spiritual well-being of your flock, you tirelessly preach the Gospel of the Kingdom (Matthew 4:23), striving to serve as a steward of the Mysteries of God (1 Corinthians 4:1).

In recognition of your labors and for this important anniversary, I deem it worthy to honor you with the Order of St Innokenty, Metropolitan of Moscow and Kolomensk, 1st Degree.

May the Creator renew your spiritual and bodily powers and grant His unfailing aid in your future archpastoral work to the benefit of the Holy Church.

With love in Christ Jesus,

+KIRILL,
PATRIARCH OF MOSCOW AND ALL RUSSIA