“You consistently defend the sovereignty of our country,” Patriarch Kirill of Moscow said in a message congratulating Russian President Vladimir Putin on the Day of the Baptism of Rus’, as well as on his name day, celebrated on the feast of St. Vladimir, Equal-to-the-Apostles.
More specifically, addressing the Russian President, Patriarch Kirill claimed that Vladimir Putin “draws inspiration from the example of St. Vladimir,” whom he described as a “defender of the Fatherland and champion of Orthodoxy.”
Patriarch Kirill also did not hesitate to praise the Russian President, who launched the war against Ukraine, which, judging by the Patriarch’s remarks, appears to constitute a form of “defending the Fatherland.”
“It is gratifying to see that, inspired by the example of the holy prince, defender of the Fatherland and champion of Orthodoxy, you consistently defend the sovereignty of our country, attend to its socio-economic development, and care not only for the material but also for the spiritual well-being of your fellow citizens,” he said.
The Patriarch also expressed his appreciation for the attention that, as he noted, “the Russian President devotes to the ministry of the Church.”
At the same time, he expressed hope that cooperation between the Russian state and the Russian Orthodox Church would continue to contribute to preserving and strengthening the unity of the people, as well as to promoting traditional moral values.
Concluding his message, Patriarch Kirill wished Vladimir Putin spiritual and physical strength, abundant help from God, and success in his work for the benefit of the country.
