http://online.wsj.com/article/SB1184695 ... mailed_day
The 1958 document that archivists say links Patriarch Alexy to the KGB,
as translated for The Wall Street Journal. See the original.
<http://online.wsj.com/public/resources/ ... Pic07.html
"Agent 'Drozdov' -- born in 1929, a priest of the Orthodox church, with
a post-secondary education, graduate theological degree, and possessing
perfect command of Russian, Estonian, and weak German. Recruited 28
February 1958 on the basis of patriotic feelings for exposing and
exploiting anti-Soviet elements among the Orthodox clergy, among whom
he
has ties which are of operational interest to the KGB. During
recruitment, consideration was given (after consolidating our hold [on
him] through practical work) to his future promotion, as opportunities
allow, to the office of bishop of Tallinn and Estonia.
"During the period of collaboration with the KGB, 'Drozdov' made a
positive impression, being neat in appearance, energetic and sociable.
He has a good understanding of the theoretical questions concerning
theology and the international situation. With regard to fulfilling our
assignments, he reacts with willingness and has already provided a
number of materials worthy of attention which are being utilized to
document the criminal activities of a member of the governing body of
the Iykhviskii Orthodox church, GURKIN and his wife, who is misusing
her
official position by registering pensions for certain citizens
(accepted
bribes). Attending to this matter will represent an opportunity to
strengthen 'Drozdov' in practical work with the KGB.
"In addition, "Drozdov' also presented valuable material concerning the
case being formulated against the priest POVEDSKII. At the present time
he is working on perfecting his German.
"After assigning the agent to practical work with the organs of
governmental security on concrete agency matters, we are planning to
also utilize him for promoting our interests among capitalist
governments as a member of church delegations."
--Translated by George Soroka, a Harvard University graduate student