Patriarch Alexy II of Moscow and All Russia is still in hospital

So far the doctors do not discharge Patriarch Alexy II of Moscow and All Russia from hospital. At the same time, the head of the Russian Orthodox Church hopes to soon leave hospital and resume his daily duties.

The Patriarch's appeal which RIA Novosti received from the Moscow Patriarchate's Foreign Church Relations Department says the following:

"Thank God, I feel fine now. Every day I get up for prayer, and on Sundays Holy Liturgy is said in my ward, at which I have the opportunity of taking communion. I can communicate with the people around me, read and write, although doctors still somewhat restrict my activity." The Patriarch thanked those who displayed concern about his health, sent him letters and telegrams wishing him early recuperation. "Your prayers and your sympathy are a great help to me," stressed the Patriarch in his message.