MOSCOW: July 28, 2009
Archbishop Hilarion of Volokolamsk Sends Condolences To the First Hierarch of the Russian Church Abroad On the Death of Bishop Ambroise (Cantacuzene) 

To His Eminence HILARION,
Metropolitan of Eastern America and New York
First Hierarch of the Russian Orthodox Church Outside of Russia

You Eminence, dear Vladyka!

Accept my heartfelt condolences in connection with the repose of His Grace Bishop Ambroise (Cantacuzene), formerly of Vevey.

For many years, Vladyka suffered from serious illness which he endured, as is fitting for a Christian, with courage and humility.  Until his final days, he zealously served the Church, being the Rector of the Church of St Barbara in his native city of Vevey.

We will remember His Grace Ambroise as a tireless laborer in the harvest-fields of Christ. Vladyka was a member of the Commission of the Russian Church Abroad on discussions with the Moscow Patriarchate, and despite his ailment, participated actively in its work.

The last time Vladyka Ambroise visited Russia was in January of this year. The Lord enabled him to participate in the Local Council of the Russian Orthodox Church, the first one held following the reestablishment of canonical unity with the Church Abroad, which was achieved through the great participation of Vladyka himself.

May the Lord grant peace to the newly-reposed Bishop Ambroise in his heavenly abode with the saints. Eternal memory to him!

With love in Christ,

Hilarion
Archbishop of Volokolamsk
President of the
Department of External Church Relations
of the Moscow Patriarchate.