Archbishop Kyrill undergoes successful surgery

PITTSBURGH, PA [OCA Communications] — The senior member of the Holy Synod of Bishops of the Orthodox Church in America, His Eminence, Archbishop Kyrill of Pittsburgh and Western Pennsylvania, underwent back surgery on Tuesday, September 12, 2006.

Physicians announced that the 86-year-old hierarch’s surgery was successful, noting that his chances for full recovery are very good.

Archbishop Kyrill will remain in North Hills Passavant Hospital here for at least one week, after which he will be transferred to a rehabilitation facility for an estimated two months.

In a related story, His Eminence, Archbishop Peter, retired archbishop of New York and New Jersey, remains in stable condition after a recent surgery. For a number of years, he has been suffering from a variety of ailments which ultimately led to his retirement in 2005.

“I invite all of our faithful to join me in praying for the health of Archbishops Kyrill and Peter,” Metropolitan Herman said after receiving news of the former’s successful surgery. “May He Who is the Physician of our souls and bodies restore them to health in response to our fervent prayers.”