NEW YORK: December 7, 2009
The First Hierarch of the Russian Church Abroad Sends Greetings To Archimandrite Zaccheus (Wood) On the 15th Anniversary of the OCA Representation in Moscow 

To His Reverence
Archimandrite Zacchaeus
Representative of the Orthodox Church in America

To His Holiness Patriarch Kirill of Moscow and All Russia 

Dear Right Reverend Fr Zacchaeus: 

I congratulate you with my entire soul, along with your clergymen and worshipers of St Catherin-on-the-Fields Church in Moscow on your church’s feast day, and on the 15th anniversary of the opening of the Representation of the Orthodox Church in America in Moscow! 

Since that time, the OCA’s Representation’s relations with the other Local Orthodox Churches, nations and various community organizations have significantly strengthened thanks to your efforts. It is also important to note your labors and those of the donors of St Catherine’s Church, which was rebuilt, decorated and returned to its former glory.  

I prayerfully participate in today’s celebrations, calling Divine blessings upon you and your colleagues, clergymen and the worshipers of St Catherine’s Church. May the prayerful intercession of Holy Great Martyr Catherine forever accompany your labors for the good of Holy Orthodoxy! 

With love in the Lord and asking for your prayers, 

+HILARION,
Metropolitan of Eastern America and New York,
First Hierarch of the Russian Orthodox Church Outside of Russia 
December 7, 2009