Ahead of the traditional Christmas tree lighting at the Cathedral of Christ the Saviour, Patriarch Kirill of Moscow and All Russia greeted Luka Stukalin, then 11, who had faced a long and difficult journey with his health. Luka had been unable to walk until age six due to spinal problems, and the family has endured a history of significant medical procedures. Reports indicate that Luka underwent 16 operations, all conducted under general anesthesia, marking a record of resilience shared by his family and supporters. The moment, captured by news agency TASS, highlighted the Patriarch’s personal engagement with a family facing serious health challenges.
Earlier, Luka had written a letter to the Patriarch, sharing his story and aspirations. In response, Kirill invited Luka and his relatives to participate in the Patriarchal Christmas tree ceremony at the Cathedral. The encounter stood as a symbol of compassion and recognition from church leadership toward a child who had endured substantial medical hardship and who inspired many with his perseverance.
During the exchange, Luka’s father, Father John Stukalin, conveyed to the Patriarch the extent of his son’s medical history. He noted that Luka had undergone 16 surgeries under general anesthesia as part of his effort to regain mobility and health. The Patriarch’s blessing and a small gift given to Luka served as a moment of pastoral support and encouragement for the boy and his family on their ongoing path.
Beyond the personal moment with Luka, the Patriarch spoke on broader social themes. He addressed the issue of migration, emphasizing that the Russian Federation should not stigmatize those who choose to leave the country or scold them when they realize mistakes in their decisions. He acknowledged that among migrants there can be many worthy people who leave out of fear or in search of better opportunities, but who may feel judged or ostracized on their journey. The remarks were framed as a call for empathy and fair treatment of people crossing borders in search of safer or more promising lives.
The Patriarch’s remarks arrived in a period marked by heightened attention to migration and international moves. He reiterated the idea that compassion should guide public discourse about those who relocate, stressing the importance of recognizing the humanity of every individual regardless of their country of origin. His statements aimed to balance concern for national interests with a welcoming spirit toward those seeking refuge or new opportunities abroad.
Earlier, the Patriarch had offered condolences following the explosions in Kerman, Iran, extending prayers for the victims and their families. The outpouring of sympathy reflected the church’s broader approach to global tragedies, emphasizing solidarity and support across borders, even as the church operates within specific national and spiritual communities.