MOSCOW: 10 November, 2024
Patriarchal condolences on the repose of Archbishop Peter of Chicago and Mid-America

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

To the clergy and laity of the Diocese of Chicago and Mid-America

Your Emimence, Beloved in the Lord Vladyka,
Reverend Fathers, Dear Brothers and Sisters:

It was with deep sorrow that I received the news of the death of Archbishop Peter of Chicago and Mid-America, one of the oldest hierarchs of the Russian Orthodox Church Outside of Russia. I offer my sincere condolences to all of you.

From a young age, having decided to devote himself to the service of the Lord, Vladyka with deep faith and hope in God's Providence followed the chosen path. He was an assistant to St.John (Maximovich) and had the happy opportunity to learn from him many Christian virtues.

The ever-memorable worker of the Lord's vineyard fulfilled various church obediences, and in adulthood he took monastic vows and was called to high episcopal service.

More than 20 years of his archpastoral work was associated with the Diocese of Chicago and Mid-America. The late bishop zealously built up parish life here and did much for the development of all aspects of diocesan activity. Possessing great spiritual and life experience, Archbishop Peter had concern for the education of future generations of clergymen. Everyone who knew Vladyka closely saw in him not only a zealous hierarch, but also a caring and loving father.

May the All-Merciful Lord give rest to the soul of His newly-departed faithful servant in the abodes of the righteous, where there is no sickness, nor sorrow, nor sighing, but eternal life, and will create for him eternal and blessed memory.

With deep condolences

+KIRILL,
PATRIARCH OF MOSCOW AND ALL RUSSIA

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