Moldova occupies a special place in Europe, where two great cultures – the Latin and the Slavic ones – meet, Patriarch Kirill of Moscow and All Russia said in his speech delivered at the Metropolitan Cathedral in Chisinau in the evening of October 8, Info-Prim Neo reports. “I came to the 175th anniversary of the foundation of the God’s Birth Cathedral in Chisinau with special pleasure. Moldova occupies an important place in Europe’s heart. Two great cultures – the Latin and the Slavic ones – have met here for centuries. They peacefully coexist on this land. You have many monasteries in Moldova, but faith in God is the most important,” said the Patriarch. He also said he will pray for the civic peace in Moldova and for unity, despite the current situation in the country. He called on the people to show wisdom and solidarity. He distributed small icons representing Saint Serghie of Radonej, who is celebrated on Saturday, to the attending people. After landing at the Chisinau International Airport, Patriarch Kirill went to the Metropolitan Cathedral, where he held a service. It was attended by Acting President Marian Lupu and Prime Minister Vlad Filat. Several hundreds of people gathered in front of the Cathedral to take part in the gratitude service. His Holiness Kirill will be in Moldova until Monday, October 10. Between 09.00 and 12.00 on Sunday, he will officiate at a liturgical service at the Metropolitan Cathedral. He will then lay flowers at the monument to Stephan the Great. He will also take part in a series of events, including the blessing of the cathedral of “Curchi” Monastery.