Putin Wishes Russians Merry Christmas, Commends Role Of Church

Putin Wishes Russians Merry Christmas, Commends Role of Church

Russian President Vladimir Putin on Monday wished Russians a merry Orthodox Christmas and commended the role of church in the country's life, the Kremlin press service said

MOSCOW (Pakistan Point News / Sputnik - 07th January, 2019) Russian President Vladimir Putin on Monday wished Russians a merry Orthodox Christmas and commended the role of church in the country's life, the Kremlin press service said.

"I cordially congratulate you on Christmas. This wonderful holiday gives people joy and hope, unites them around eternal spiritual and moral values, traditions of compassion and charity. It is associated with folk and family customs that are handed down from generation to generation, sincere belief in positive changes and fulfillment of the most cherished wishes," Putin said in a congratulatory address.

The president also stressed the important role of the church in educating the youth and helping tackle many acute social issues.

"I am pleased to note that the Russian Orthodox Church and other Christian confessions play a big, positive role in the life of our country, care about social harmony, strengthening the institution of family and educating young people. They do a lot to resolve pressing social problems and harmonize interethnic and interreligious dialogue. Such fruitful and highly demanded work deserves deep appreciation and respect," he added.

The president wished all Russians celebrating Orthodox Christmas health, success and prosperity.