The message of greetings reads, in part:
“Founded on the ancient land of Pskov and surrounded by the unique beauty of nature, the monastery has been a stronghold of Orthodoxy and religious education for many centuries. It is a true masterpiece of domestic and world architecture. It kept the light of faith even in its most difficult years while its brethren have strengthened the traditions of devotion, service and exceptional diligence for centuries.
One of the oldest in Russia, the Holy Dormition Pskovo-Pechersky Monastery has witnessed and been part of important, truly fateful events in our history and has stood as a fortress in the enemy’s path.
Today, concern for the preservation of the monastery and its shrines is a model of creative unity of the Russian Orthodox Church, representatives of public organisations, scientists, restorers, museum workers and volunteers – all people who care and value our rich cultural, historical and spiritual heritage.”