This week in Christian history: Patriarch Kirill elected; John Donne ordained; first March for Life
Patriarch Kirill becomes head of Russian Orthodox Church – Jan. 27, 2009
This week marks the anniversary of when Metropolitan Kirill was overwhelmingly elected to become patriarch of the Russian Orthodox Church, replacing Patriarch Aleksy II.
Kirill had defeated Metropolitan Kliment of Kaluga and Borovsk in a vote of 508-169, with the election taking place at Moscow’s Cathedral of Christ the Savior.
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“Receiving this manifestation of God's will from your hands, I ask for your indulgence of my weaknesses,” said Kirill shortly after the vote, as quoted by RadioFreeEurope/RadioLiberty.
“I ask you to help me with your wise advice. I ask you to stand next to me while I carry out my patriarch's duties. But more than anything, I ask for your prayers.”
In more recent times, Kirill has garnered controversy over his support of Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, receiving criticism from many Orthodox clergy as well as sanctions from entities including the U.K. government.
