Russian Orthodox Patriarch praises Castro’s legacy

Russian Orthodox Patriarch Kirill of Moscow expressed his “deep sorrow” at the death of Fidel Castro, describing the Cuban dictator as a “courageous and charismatic person, a man who was a sincere friend of the Russian Orthodox Church.”

The Russian prelate said that Castro was “the embodiment of the Cuban people,” whose leadership allowed Cuba to gain “genuine independence.” 

In his message—addressed to Raul Castro, who succeeded his brother as head of the Cuban government—he offered prayers that the news Cuban would find leader “solance and composure to carry on.”

“The Russian Orthodox Church will always say Fidel Castro’s name with respect and gratitude,” Patriarch Kirill said, recalling that Fidel Castro had allowed the opening of a Russian Orthodox parish in Havana.