(ANSA) - ROME, FEBRUARY 24 - An "invitation to all the conflicting parties to do everything possible to avoid civilian casualties" in the ongoing conflict in Ukraine was addressed by Patriarch Kirill, head of the Russian Orthodox Church.
"As Patriarch of All Russia and Primate of the Church, whose flock is found in Russia, Ukraine and other countries, I deeply empathize with all those who have been touched by the disaster," Kirill said in a message posted on the Moscow Patriarchate website.
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"I appeal to bishops, pastors, monks and laity - he adds - to provide all possible assistance to all victims, including refugees, people left without shelter and means of subsistence".
"I invite the entire Russian Orthodox Church to offer sincere and fervent prayer for the rapid restoration of peace", concludes the Patriarch.
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