Patriarch of Moscow and All Russia Kirill and Supreme Patriarch and Catholicos of All Armenians Karekin II signed on Thursday a joint declaration that sums up the three-day visit of the head of the Russian Orthodox Church to Armenia and reflects plans for the development of interchurch dialogue, RIA Novosti reports.
As Father Philip explained, the declaration details the continuation of interchurch dialog – both in theological and social areas.
Father Philip stressed that the churches seek to create favorable conditions for the shepherding of their diasporas. Russia is home to the largest Armenian diaspora while in Armenia there are about 15,000 Russian-speakers.
The declaration also mentioned that Patriarch Kirill invited Karekin II to the capital of Azerbaijan, Baku, for an international summit of religious leaders on April 26-27. The answer of the head of Armenian Apostolic Church is awaited.
According to father Philip, the intention to develop a program of student exchanges was also mentioned – for example in the religious academies of Moscow and St. Petersburg expect new students from Armenia this year.
