Cyril of Moscow to Putin: "You consistently defend the sovereignty of our country"translated

The Patriarch of Moscow and All Russia Mr. Cyril congratulated the President of Russia Vladimir Putin on the Day of the Baptism of Russians as well as on his name holiday.  “Your patron saint, Saint Vladimir the Apostle, made a fateful choice many centuries ago — he embraced Christianity. Showing wisdom and courage, political sensitivity and will, he set a unique pattern for the development of Russia for centuries: the Orthodox faith became the decisive factor in the moral development of the people, the foundation of our national culture and traditions", notes the Russian Primate at the beginning of his message.

Mr. Cyril states that it is gratifying "to see that, inspired by the example of the holy prince, defender of the Fatherland and defender of Orthodoxy, you consistently defend the sovereignty of our country, take care of its socio-economic development and are interested not only in the material but also in the spiritual well-being of your fellow citizens".

Once again the Patriarch of Moscow publicly expressed my gratitude for President Putin's continued support of the Russian Orthodox Church.…