The message reads, in part:
“I am delighted to greet you at the opening ceremony of the 33rd International Educational Christmas Readings in the State Kremlin Palace.
Your representative meetings are rightfully considered an important and substantive part of cultural and spiritual life in our country, as well as an example of a meaningful dialogue and cooperation between the Russian Orthodox Church, the bodies of state authority and civil society institutions.
I would like to note that the themes of your readings are always relevant, enjoy demand and address the essential humanitarian and civilisational issues of exceptional significance for Russia’s present and future. They primarily concern the preservation of our rich historical and cultural heritage, the strengthening of our enduring spiritual, moral and family values, and the improvement of our system of education and awareness building.
This year we will celebrate the 80th anniversary of Victory in the Great Patriotic War, and so it is deeply symbolic that the 33rd International Educational Christmas Readings are dedicated to this important date that is of great significance to millions of people throughout the world.
I am confident that your forum will have a special focus on preserving historical truth about the past war and its heroes. This unfading memory is a bond that connects our people, allows different generations to see themselves as a united and tightly knit nation, and helps bring up our young people in the spirit of patriotism, civic awareness and respect for our history.”