Filaret asks the Russian Orthodox Church to be pardoned

To Primate of the Russian Orthodox Church
Patriarch of Moscow and all Rus Kirill
Episcopate of the Russian Orthodox Church

Your Holiness!

Brethren in Christ

The Scripture teaches us: "Do not repay anyone evil for evil, but give thought to do what is honorable in the sight of all. If it is possible, as far as it depends on you, live at peace with everybody "(Romans 12: 17-18). And the Savior Himself says: "This is how everyone will recognize that you are my disciples – when they see the love you have for one another" (John 13:35).

Wishing to stop separations and strife among Orthodox Christians, to restore Eucharistic and prayerful communication, as it is deemed proper for the One Holy Catholic and Apostolic Church, and so as to reach peace commanded by the Lord between fellow Orthodox Christians and reconciliation between nations, I appeal to you to make appropriate decisions, which will put an end to the on-going confrontation. Namely – to repeal all decisions, including disciplinary punishments and anathemas, creating obstacles for the aforesaid.

I express hopes that further on, for the sake of God, other decisions will be accepted, arising from this wish and necessary for the well-being of Orthodoxy.

Over the recent years a great deal of affliction and strife has overshadowed mutual relations between the Orthodox faithful in our countries. May the day approach when, according to the word of the service of the Easter celebration, "we embrace each other; say, "Brothers!" and we will forgive those who hate us in the name of Resurrection." And I, as your brother and concelebrant, request to be pardoned for all my sins committed in word, deed and all my feelings, and I sincerely forgive everyone with all my heart.”

With love in Christ
Your fellow brother

November 16, 2017

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