Patriarch of Moscow to Putin: “By the providence of God, you lead our country”

Patriarch Kirill of Moscow has expressed his congratulations to the President of the Russian Federation, Vladimir Putin, on his birthday.

On the occasion of the Russian President’s birthday, Patriarch Kirill of Moscow sent a letter of congratulations to Vladimir Putin. Among other things, it refers to the course of the country under his leadership, the relations between Church and State, and the cooperation of state, religious, and social bodies.

The Patriarch notes that “by the Providence of God, for several years” Vladimir Putin has led Russia, and he highlights the efforts to strengthen the Russian state and economy, to protect traditional moral and family values, and to safeguard the country’s historical, spiritual, and cultural heritage.

Patriarch Kirill further stresses that these efforts “find a warm response in the hearts of millions of our fellow citizens,” who, as he states, see in the Russian President a national leader who is an example of “selfless and dedicated service to the Fatherland.”

He makes special mention of Church–State relations, expressing to Vladimir Putin his “sincere gratitude” for his unfailing interest in the multifaceted work of the Russian…