Rustem Khamitov congratulated Orthodox Christians on Christmas

UFA, 7 January 2017. /Bashinform News Agency, Alexander Smirnov/. The Head of Bashkortostan Rustem Khamitov congratulated the Orthodox Christians on Christmas. The message says:

"Dear Orthodox Christians of Bashkortostan!

I sincerely and whole-heartedly wish you a Merry Christmas!

For centuries, this one of the most popular Christian holidays brings together millions of people around the world, warms hearts with love, encourages for heavenly thoughts and noble deeds, turn them to spiritual roots of faith. The Orthodox Christmas affirms family values, makes us kinder and more merciful, teaches us compassion and mutual support.

Every year, the role of the Russian Orthodox Church is strengthening in keeping moral foundations of our society, links between generations, religious tolerance and interfaith dialogue. This multilateral fruitful activity in collaboration with the Muslim Ummah and other faiths contributes to the development of rich religious and cultural traditions, education of youth and social assistance to the needy people.

Let these Christmas days will give us joy of communicating with relatives, warmth and good humour.

I sincerely wish you and your families good health, prosperity, peace, happiness, and fulfillment of all hopes! "