Today, Orthodox Christians celebrate the most revered church holiday, the Resurrection of Christ or Easter. It symbolizes the victory of life over death. It is traditionally the main date in the Orthodox calendar.
Earlier, on the night of April 16, a festive liturgy was held at the Cathedral of Christ the Savior in Moscow. It was led by Patriarch Kirill of Moscow and All Rus'. Russian President Vladimir Putin also visited it.
"May the Lord protect our countries, may He strengthen peace and love in relations between us, and we believe that, by the grace of God, we will all be able to change the world for the better", the Patriarch said.
In the telegram, which was published on the Kremlin website, Vladimir Putin congratulated all Orthodox Russians on Easter. He noted that the holiday gave believers hope, inspired good deeds, and served to affirm high moral ideals and values in society.
"On this spring holiday, I want to note the activities of the Russian Orthodox Church and other Christian denominations aimed at preserving our richest historical and cultural heritage, solving key social problems, strengthening the institution of the family, educating young people, harmonizing interreligious and interethnic relations", he stressed.
The Russian leader recalled that the Church had always shared hardships and joys with the people. In the face of serious challenges that Russia is facing today, it helps citizens to find a strong spiritual support, also engaging in charitable activities.
Earlier, in Jerusalem the Holy Fire descended in the Church of the Holy Sepulcher, symbolizing the light of the Resurrection of Christ. At night, the Holy Fire was brought to Moscow by plane, and then it was handed over to representatives of the diocese of the Russian Orthodox Church. Later, the Fire was brought to the Cathedral of Christ the Savior for the Easter service.
