Speech of US Ambassador to the Russian Federation, Mr. Alexander Vershbow on the Feast of St. Catherine the Great Martyr

Good morning. Lisa and I consider it an honor and a privilege to be invited here today in the presence of Patriarch Aleksiy II. I would like to take this opportunity to thank and congratulate Father Zacchaeus, the clergy, and the faithful parishioners of St. Catherine's on the occasion of their Patronal Feast Day.

St. Catherine the Great Martyr Church represents a unique and important link between Russia and the United States. We have in recent years witnessed a deepening of political and economic ties between our two great nations, and I believe St. Catherine's very much represents the spiritual dimension of our ties. Indeed, I believe the Patriarch himself sees and appreciates the work of St. Catherine's in building spiritual ties between our two nations, as witnessed by his presence here on this feast day.

I also would like to commend Father Zacchaeus for his tireless efforts to reach out to the American community in Moscow and make them aware of this wonderful church and its good deeds. The poignant and touching service offered here on the anniversary of September 11th was attended by both Russians and Americans, and was a perfect example of both the Father's efforts, and the deep ties that bind our two peoples.

St. Catherine personified truth and justice. When we live a life of truth and justice, we can expect those who would do evil to oppose us. Nevertheless, we must continue to work towards a world in which tolerance, freedom, and partnership take the place of hatred, ignorance, and xenophobia. The good works emanating from St. Catherine the Great Martyr Church do honor to the ideals of diversity, freedom and, most importantly, the sanctity of life, and Lisa and I thank you for allowing us be with you on this special day.