Paris, Jun. 28, 2007 (CWNews.com) - Russian Orthodox Patriarch Alexei II of Moscow will visit France in October, to speak before the European Parliament in Strasbourg and to lead a prayer service at the cathedral of Notre Dame in Paris.
The Russian prelate's trip to France and especially the service at Notre Dame are the latest examples of increased contact between the Moscow patriarchate and the Catholic Church. Russian Orthodox leaders have joined with Vatican officials in an energetic campaign to preserve the Christian heritage of Europe. Ecumenical officials agree that this cooperative effort has greatly improved overall relations between Moscow and Rome.
Alexy II will also meet with French political and religious leaders and with Orthodox faithful.