Russian President Vladimir Putin congratulates His Holiness Patriarch Alexy with his enthronement anniversary

President of the Russian Federation V. Putin sent his greetings to His Holiness Patriarch Alexy II of Moscow and All Russia on the occasion of the sixteenth anniversary of his enthronement. The message published by the presidential press service, says:

‘Your long and fruitful activities as Primate of the Russian Orthodox Church has gained you authority and respect in the country. Your pastor’s word has for many years taught people mercy, toleration and patience and helped them find a firm spiritual foundation. Largely thanks to your efforts, the Russian Orthodox Church has become an integral part of civil society and a factor of stability in the interethnic and interreligious relations in Russia. Its educational, charity and peace activity deserves special thanks.

I sincerely wish Your Holiness new successes in your responsible ministry, good health, peace and many years of life.’