Serbian Patriarch Porfirije awarded honorary doctorate in Moscow

The event, attended by Patriarch Kirill of Moscow and All Russia, was opened by the Rector of the Moscow Theological Academy, Bishop Kirill of Sergiev Posad and Dmitrov.

Bishop Kirill emphasised the importance of religious and theological thought in both Russia and Serbia, highlighting its role in countering the anti-Christian influences prevalent in today's information-driven world. He called upon Russian and Serbian theology students to convey the highest truths of Christian morality, respect for church sacraments, and the importance of fulfilling Christ's commandments.

Kirill noted that students from the SPC traditionally form a significant portion of foreign students at the main theological schools of the Russian Orthodox Church, including the Moscow and St. Petersburg Theological Academies.

The ceremony included the formal announcement of the decision to award Patriarch Porfirije the academic title of Honorary Doctor of Theology for his recognised scholarly and educational contributions to the development of theological science and the strengthening of ties between the Russian Orthodox Church and the Serbian Orthodox Church.

Patriarch Kirill presented the diploma to Patriarch Porfirije, who accepted the honour with deep respect, gratitude, and humility. Porfirije described the recognition as one of the most significant milestones in his decades-long theological and scientific research, as well as in his educational and enlightening service.

The event was attended by members of the SPC delegation, including Archbishop Irinej of Novi Sad and Metropolitan of Bačka, and Abbot Hariton of the Kovilj Monastery. Also present were Metropolitan Grigorije of Voskresensk, Administrator of the Moscow Patriarchate, and Archbishop Toma of Odintsovo and Krasnogorsk, Head of the Administrative Secretariat of the Moscow Patriarchate.

Patriarch Porfirije has been in Moscow since April 21st, where he met with Patriarch Kirill and Russian President Vladimir Putin, the statement added.