PATRIARCH of Moscow and all Russia Kirill yesterday visited the Constantia- Famagusta Metropolis.
Patriarch Kirill visited the Cultural Centre in Dherynia, where he looked over the fenced-off ghost town of Varosha. He was welcomed by the mayors and members of Famagusta and Dherynia Municipal Councils.
Famagusta Deputy Mayor Simo Ioannou gave the Patriarch two gifts, an icon of Saint Nicholas and a clay amphora vase.
Patriarch Kirill also visited Ayios Georgios square in Paralimni. Mayor of Paralimni Theodoros Pirrilis welcomed the Patriarch and asked him to support the Cypriot Greek Orthodox people and the refugees of Famagusta in their struggle to return to their homes and their properties.
Following the welcoming ceremony, Patriarch Kirill and Bishop of Constantia and Famagusta Vassilios officiated a service at the Metropolitan Church of Ayios Georgios in Paralimni. In his speech, Bishop Vassilios referred to the close relations between the people of Cyprus and the people of Russia. He also referred to the Turkish occupation and the destruction of the cultural and orthodox heritage in the occupied areas.
In his speech, Patriarch Kirill said that he vividly remembered the beautiful city of Famagusta, when he visited Cyprus in 1970.
He wished that during his next visit to Cyprus he would be able to officiate a service at the occupied Cathedral Church of Ayios Nikolaos, in a free Famagusta.
After the service, Patriarch Kirill attended a lunch, hosted by Bishop Vassilios.
Today, Archbishop Chrysostomos and Patriarch Kirill will officiate at a service at Ayia Sofia Church in Nicosia and on Monday at a liturgy at the Apostle Varnavas Church in Dasoupoli.
The Patriarch will meet President Demetris Christofias tomorrow before departing in the afternoon.