The message reads, in part:
“I would like to note that theology occupies an important place in the system of humanitarian knowledge and has a distinct and important ideological and educational mission. It promotes the preservation of spiritual and moral values and the prolific cultural heritage of all peoples living in Russia. Therefore, it makes perfect sense to convene representatives of government bodies, academia, religious and public organisations to discuss a wide range of topics such as improving the system of training qualified personnel, improving the quality of theology instruction at traditional and spiritual educational institutions, and strengthening its methodological framework, as your meeting has.
I am sure that the conference will be held in a constructive and creative atmosphere, and you will be able to address the matters on its programme with a high level of expertise, and your decisions will certainly be implemented.”