The message reads, in part:
“Your tireless efforts have earned you the highest standing in Russia and around the world. Under your leadership the Russian Orthodox Church exerts a great influence on the morality and development of our society and performs a valued educational and social mission together with the state.
The Church plays a vital role in maintaining international and inter-religious harmony in our country, helping young people to draw on Russia’s historical and spiritual heritage and the traditions of religious tolerance and patriotism. Your personal openness to dialogue with people of different generations and religious traditions, and your commitment to universal values of peace, justice and goodness serve as a great positive example.
I am confident that under your leadership the Russian Orthodox Church will continue its high and socially significant mission.”