Russian President Vladimir Putin and Patriarch Kirill of Moscow exchanged congratulations and well-wishes in celebration of “Russia Day.” President Putin acknowledged the potential challenges facing the country, expressing confidence that these would be overcome through faith in unwavering moral values, traditions that highlight patriotism, and sincere love for the Fatherland.
Patriarch Kirill thanked President Putin for his steadfast support of the Russian Orthodox Church’s ministry and expressed hope that the ongoing church-state cooperation will continue to thrive, fostering traditional spiritual and moral foundations that strengthen peace and harmony in our nation.
Read President Putin’s letter to the Patriarch of Moscow:
Your Beatitude,
Happy Russia Day!
For centuries, our ancestors honorably served our Homeland with their achievements, military prowess, talent, and inspiration, thereby creating a great power. We continue to uphold these unwavering moral values, the traditions that exemplify their patriotism, and a sincere love for the Fatherland.
I am deeply convinced that by maintaining the connection between the ages and generations, and keeping faith in our roots and origins, we will achieve our goals and overcome any potential challenges.
I wish you success and all the best!
Read Patriarch of Moscow’s response to President Putin
Your Excellency, dear Vladimir Vladimirovich,
I wish you a heartfelt Happy Russia Day.
This celebration unites all those who work for the benefit of our Homeland, contributing to the defense of our national interests, state sovereignty, and independence. Maintaining an active political stance, combined with a patriotic spirit and faith in the traditional spiritual and moral values that define the cultural identity of our people, is undoubtedly key to the successful development of all aspects of public life and the prosperity of Russia.
I am deeply grateful to you for your unwavering support of the ministry of the Russian Orthodox Church and your dedication to projects in education and society at large. I hope that the established church-state interaction will continue actively, yielding even more fruit, and contributing to the creation of traditional spiritual and moral foundations in the life of our people to strengthen peace and harmony.
I wish you health, strength, and God’s help in your responsible work as President of Russia.
With deep and sincere respect,
+KIRILL
PATRIARCH OF MOSCOW AND ALL RUSSIA
Translated from Russian by: Konstantinos Menyktas