In his statement commemorating Orthodox Easter, Russian President Vladimir Putin congratulated Russian citizens, stating the holiday gives believers hope, inspires good thoughts and deeds, and serves to manifest high moral ideals and values in society.

It is worth noting that Putin attended the midnight Easter service at the Cathedral of Christ the Savior in Moscow.

“The wonderful and much-loved Easter holiday fills believers’ hearts with hope, inspires kind thoughts and good deeds, and serves to promote highly moral ideals and values in society. On this spring holiday, with a feeling of deep satisfaction, I would like to emphasize the constructive and truly selfless efforts by the Russian Orthodox Church and other Christian denominations, aimed at preserving our immense historical and cultural heritage, resolve major social issues, enhance the institution of the family, educate the younger generation, and harmonize interfaith and interethnic relations," Putin said in a telegram publicized by the Kremlin.

The Russian President further hailed the "strengthening" role of the church for society and youth in light of the war in Ukraine. 

"I would like to express my profound gratitude for your tireless and selfless work in preserving the enduring historical, spiritual, moral, and family values, by educating and enlightening youth," Putin added. 

"For many years, your wise pastoral words have served to strengthen society... Today, as we face serious challenges, it is particularly important," he stressed, in reference to Russia's top bishop, the Patriarch Kirill of Moscow.

Read next: Russia:Kiev persecution of Orthodox Church to cause sectarian conflict