The message reads, in part:
“This Feast of feasts, Easter brings Orthodox Christians and all Russians celebrating Easter Sunday together around high moral ideals and values, inspiring the best in people, as well as belief in the triumph of life, goodness and justice.
It is important that we note the creative, positive and fruitful efforts by the Russian Orthodox Church and other Christian denominations to preserve our rich historical, cultural and spiritual traditions, as well as to promote family values and educate the younger generation. Of course, Christian organisations deserve special credit for their community service and charity undertakings, and their commitment to helping those in need of care and support in these challenging times.”
Vladimir Putin and Moscow Mayor Sergei Sobyanin attended the midnight Easter service at the Cathedral of Christ the Saviour, led by Patriarch Kirill of Moscow and All Russia.
