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Putin Wishes Russia a Merry Christmas
Russian President Vladimir Putin has issued Christmas greetings to Orthodox Christians and all Russian citizens, his press service reports. “This is a holiday that has borne the light of faith, hope and love for centuries. It draws us to the true spiritual values that unite millions of people,” the president said, “Values that play a particular role in Russian history and feed our national culture. The Russian Orthodox Church and adherent of other Christian confessions are devoting steady, serious attention to questions of the moral health of society today. They are strengthening moral foundations, taking care of families and children and helping the needy. That work deserved sincere gratitude and respect. I wish Orthodox Christians and all citizens of Russia who celebrate Christmas peace, happiness, prosperity and, of course, success.”
Putin also sent Patriarch of Moscow and All Russia Alexy II Christmas greetings. In that telegram, he wrote, in part, “The renewal of the tradition of celebrating Christmas has brought many happy moments and good hopes to our lives and has become a shining symbol of the spiritual renaissance of Russia. Your selfless labor, unfailing care for the spiritual health of society, for increasing peace, harmony and understanding among people, and for training the younger generation deserves the most sincere gratitude.”
www.kommersant.com
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Photo: Dmitry Azarov