Prime Minister Vladimir Putin sends a message congratulating Patriarch Kirill of Moscow and All Russia on his 65th birthday
The message reads, in part:
"Your fruitful activities as the leader of the Russian Orthodox Church have earned you authority and respect both in Russia and abroad. Your wise words teach us mercy and tolerance, and help people find a solid spiritual foundation. You have consistently upheld Orthodox values and helped strengthen people's trust in the clergy and the Church. Your contribution to restoring and promoting the role of the Russian Orthodox Church as a major public institution, whose important mission is to revive and preserve timeless moral and cultural values in society, cannot be overestimated.
"Today, the Church has notably expanded the scope of its social work and educational activities, as well as its selfless and much-needed work to educate the younger generation and protect the family and children."
