His Eminence Alexander, Metropolitan of Riga & All Latvia, congratulated His Eminence Nicholas, Metropolitan of Eastern America & New York, on his election as First Hierarch of the Russian Orthodox Church Outside of Russia:

To His Eminence
the Very Most Reverend NICHOLAS
Metropolitan of Eastern America & New York
First Hierarch of the Russian Church Abroad

Your Eminence,
Esteemed Vladyka Nicholas!

I ask that you accept my sincerest congratulations on the occasion of your election as First Hierarch of the Russian Church Abroad!

Rejoicing now together with your flock, I recall with love your visitation to Riga, when the Latvian land was visited by the Protectress of the Russian Diaspora – the Kursk Root Icon of the Most Holy Theotokos. Our prayerful interaction left the warmest reminiscences in my heart.

Through the intercession of our Most Blessed Lady Theotokos and Ever-Virgin Mary, may our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ grant you firm spiritual and physical strength, peace, and His abundant aid in your further hierarchal labors.

With sincere love in Christ,

+ALEXANDER
Metropolitan of Riga & All Latvia
Primate of the Latvian Orthodox Church