Holy Patriarch Cyril Welcomes Coptic Church Delegation in Moscow for Inter-Church Dialogue

The Holy Patriarch of Moscow and all Rus’, Kirill, welcomed a delegation from the Coptic Church during a meeting held at the Cathedral of Christ the Savior in Moscow on 1 February 2026. The event took place at the conclusion of the Celebrity Liturgy of God and coincided with the XXXIV International Christmas Education Readings and the 17th Anniversary of the Intronization of His Holiness. The gathering marked a significant moment of inter-church dialogue between the Russian Orthodox Church and the Coptic Church.

The delegation from the Coptic Church included notable figures such as Bishop Daniel, Permanent Member of the Holy Synod and Chairman of the Patriarchs Commission for Monastery and Monastery Affairs; Igumnia of Vasilia, Superior of the House of the Holy Lady of Zuweil (Old Cairo); Jeromona Daud El-Antony, Representative of the Coptic Church in Russia; Jeromonies Agathon Anba Paula, Monastery of Reverend Paul of Fivey; nun Anastasia, House of the Holy Lady of Zuweil; and Dr. Anton Milad, Patriarchal Counsellor. Their presence underscored the Coptic Church’s commitment to fostering relationships with other Orthodox communities.

Participants from the Moscow Patriarchate included Mitropolit Smolensky and Dorogogugsky Isidor, co-chair of the Commission for Dialogue between the Russian Orthodox Church and the Coptic Church; Jeromonach Stefan (Igumnov), Secretary of the External Church Relations Division for inter-Christian Relations; Ihumania (Caleda), Superior of the Zachayevsk Statropigial Women’s Monastery; and Diacon Alexander Cherepenin, member of the OGC. The meeting also featured representatives from various monastic communities and students from the Coptic Church studying in Russian spiritual institutions.

The Holy Patriarch Kirill expressed appreciation for the delegation’s visit, emphasizing the shared spiritual values between the Russian Orthodox Church and the Coptic Church. He highlighted their common understanding of monastic life and asceticism, as well as their alignment in church discipline and fasting practices. Kirill noted the importance of maintaining close ties and mutual respect between the two traditions.

The celebration of the Cathedral of Reverend Fathers, leaders of the convent and all the holy ones in Egypt, was a significant event for the Russian Orthodox Church, as it was established by the decision of the Holy Sineod on 30 October 2025. This commemoration reflected the deep historical and spiritual connections between the two churches, rooted in their shared Orthodox heritage.

The meeting served as a platform for discussing ongoing efforts to strengthen inter-church relations and promote mutual understanding. It also provided an opportunity to address shared concerns and explore collaborative initiatives in areas such as education, monastic life, and charitable work. The presence of students from the Coptic Church studying in Russian spiritual institutions highlighted the growing exchange of knowledge and spiritual formation between the two communities.

As the Coptic and Russian Orthodox Churches continue to engage in dialogue, their shared commitment to preserving and transmitting Orthodox teachings remains a cornerstone of their relationship. The meeting in Moscow exemplified the potential for cooperation and mutual enrichment, guided by the principles of unity, respect, and the pursuit of spiritual truth. Micah 6:8 reminds us to act justly, love mercy, and walk humbly with God—values that underpin the ongoing efforts of these churches to build a more harmonious and faithful community.

Source: Read the original report (translated from Russian)