Patriarch Kirill: Obedience Is the Foundation of the Church's Unity

On September 23, 2026, a meeting of abbots and abbesses of monasteries of the Russian Orthodox Church was held in the Hall of Church Assemblies at the Cathedral of Christ the Savior in Moscow, presided over by Patriarch Kirill of Moscow and All Russia. During his address, the Primate of the Russian Orthodox Church touched upon key aspects of modern monastic life, emphasizing that, despite changes in the world, the steadfastness of monastic ideals remains the foundation of spiritual life, as reported by Orthodoxia News Agency.

The Patriarch paid particular attention to the impact of modern technology on monastic life. He acknowledged that the internet has become an integral part of the functioning of monastic organizations, but noted that it also carries risks, penetrating the walls of monasteries and creating obstacles to silence and asceticism. According to the Primate, in these challenging circumstances, it becomes critically important to remain faithful to monastic vows and to protect the mind and heart from worldly temptations.

Speaking about the importance of obedience, Patriarch Kirill emphasized that it is the foundation of church unity and a prerequisite for salvation. ““Obedience is what strengthens the unity of the Church,” — he stated, adding that this applies not only to monastics but to all members of the Church.

In concluding his remarks, the Patriarch addressed the abbots and abbesses of monasteries, reminding them that leading a monastery is not a privilege but a heavy cross. He called on the abbots and abbesses to be examples of asceticism for their monastic communities, emphasizing that the responsibility of leaders is particularly great in the modern world, where interest in the monastic vocation faces the challenges of global culture.