ROC denies reports of Patriarch Kirill's hospitalization

Patriarch Kirill, Primate of the Russian Orthodox Church. Photo: TASS

The Russian Orthodox Church (ROC) has denied reports that Patriarch Kirill fell ill after pronouncing his homily at the Alexander Nevsky Square in St. Petersburg. Russian media cite a source close to the head of the ROC, who said these reports are false.

The ROC denies that the Patriarch became unwell and was taken away by ambulance.

“This is not true. The Patriarch is fine,” the source is quoted as saying.

While the ROC denies any deterioration in Patriarch Kirill’s health, photos from the square in St. Petersburg clearly show that, in addition to priests and personal security, a paramedic was accompanying the Patriarch.

As reported by the UOJ, Patriarch Kirill felt unwell during a speech in which he warned against the temptations of Western influence.

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