MOSCOW, January 07, /ITAR-TASS/. Russian President Vladimir Putin has congratulated Orthodox believers on Christmas, the Kremlin press service said

“This light-filled holiday inspires the kindest feelings and thoughts, unites millions of people on the basis of common moral values and historical traditions, integral parts of which are respect and harmony, mercy and care for others,” he said in his greeting.

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“The Russian Orthodox Church and representatives of other Christian confessions in Russia actively and constructively participate in the life of the country and society, help properly bring up the younger generation, support family, maternity and childhood,” Putin said. “They pay constant attention to preservation of our unique cultural heritage and to the cause of education and charity.