To His Grace, the Right Reverend Matthew, Bishop of Sourozh, Temporary Administrator of the Patriarchal Parishes in the USA and Canada
Your Grace!
Christ is Risen!
Addressing to you this life-affirming Paschal greeting, I cordially congratulate you on your 55th birthday.
Having understood that the Lord of hosts is wonderful in counsel, and excellent in working (Isa. 28:29), you decided to dedicate your life to Him, received holy orders and carried out various responsible obediences in the Tambov land. Years later, seeing your diligence in laboring in the field of the Church, the Almighty granted you to continue them in the episcopal dignity.
Today you govern the Diocese of Sourozh, as well as the Patriarchal Parishes in the USA and Canada. It is gratifying to witness that you diligently take care that in the domains entrusted to you all things be done decently and in order (1 Cor. 14:40), and strive to set a good example for the clergy and flock.
In recognition of your ministry and in connection with this significant date, I consider it fitting to award you a Patriarchal Certificate.
May the Savior of the world, risen from the tomb, strengthen your powers and grant His generous help in your further hierarchical labors for the good of Holy Orthodoxy.
With love in the Risen Christ,
+KIRILL, PATRIARCH OF MOSCOW AND ALL RUSSIA