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Russia’s Orthodox Church Urges Clergy to Avoid “Provocative Luxury” During Economic Struggles
Russia’s head of the Russian Orthodox Church, Patriarch Kirill, has called on the country’s clergy to refrain from displays of “provocative luxury” while its citizens make sacrifices and endure economic limitations.
Moderate Life for Clergy
Patriarch Kirill emphasized that while clerics have the right to live decently, their lifestyles should not starkly contrast with those of their congregations.
Avoiding Excessive Expenses
Patriarch Kirill urged bishops to demonstrate modesty during parish visits, advising them to avoid burdensome expenses that could strain church budgets and negatively impact community members.
Church Funding and Community Responsibility
The Patriarch shared that providing financial support for the church is a responsibility of every community. However, he emphasized the importance of ensuring that these contributions do not become overwhelming burdens for individuals.
Patriarch Kirill Supports the Russian Military
Praised for their efforts, priests who collect donations for the Russian military were commended by Patriarch Kirill. He asserted that the ongoing war in Ukraine reflects a broader clash of civilizations that deviates from divinely ordained norms of life.
Patriarch Kirill’s Personal Holdings
Investigative reports have revealed that Patriarch Kirill and his relatives own property in Moscow and St. Petersburg, amounting to a total value of 225 million rubles ($2.5 million). This includes multiple apartments and residences.
Patriarch Kirill’s Luxurious Lifestyle
Reports suggest that Patriarch Kirill avoids commercial flights and instead utilizes private aviation services, such as a Gulfstream G450 jet worth $43 million. The Russian Orthodox Church also owns a luxury yacht worth $4 million, primarily used by the Patriarch and high-ranking guests on Valaam Island.
Controversial Developments
In 2019, it was reported that a personal residence worth 2.8 billion rubles ($30.9 million) was being constructed for Patriarch Kirill near St. Petersburg. Additionally, a notable incident involved the Russian Orthodox Church obscuring a Breguet watch worth 30,000 euros worn by the Patriarch in a photo.
