4.07.2008, [16:19] // Inter-Christian relations //RISU.ORG.UA

Constantinople-Kyiv— Patriarch Bartholomew I will head the delegation of the Universal Patriarchate at the celebration of the 1020th anniversary of the Baptism of Rus. The Holy Synod of the Universal Patriarchate accepted the invitation of Patriarch Alexis II of Moscow and Ukraine’s President, Victor Yushchenko, asking the Patriarch of Constantinople to lead the celebratory events.

The Report of the Universal Patriarchate says: “The Holy Synod considered at its session on 23-25 June the invitation of the Most Blessed Patriarch Alexis of Moscow to send the Patriarchal Delegation to Ukraine to participate in the celebration of the 1020th anniversary of the Baptism of Kyivan Rus and the invitation of the highly respected President of Ukraine Victor Yushchenko to the Most Holy Universal Patriarch Bartholomew.

In appreciation of the invitations from the Church, State and people of Ukraine, and in respect for their feelings, [the synod] has decreed that the Mother-Church, who led the Ukrainian people to baptism, should answer the above-mentioned invitations and send the Patriarchal Delegation, headed by His Holiness.

Patriarchate, 30 June, 2008

Secretariat of the Holy Synod»