The message reads, in part:
“The wonderful and much-loved Easter holiday fills believers’ hearts with hope, inspires kind thoughts and good deeds, and serves to promote highly moral ideals and values in society.
On this spring holiday, with a feeling of deep satisfaction, I would like to emphasise the constructive and truly selfless efforts by the Russian Orthodox Church and other Christian denominations, aimed at preserving our immense historical and cultural heritage, resolve major social issues, enhance the institution of the family, educate the younger generation, and harmonise interfaith and interethnic relations. The Church has always shared joys and hardships with people. And today, amidst serious challenges, it is actively involved in mercy missions and charity work, helping people find a strong spiritual support.”
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.
