The President of Russia Vladimir Putin has taken part in jubilee celebrations dedicated to the 700-th anniversary of the birth of St. Sergius of Radonezh.

The head of state and the Patriarch of Moscow and All Russia Kyrill have addressed the pilgrims and guests of the celebration with welcoming speech.

"The teacher and organizer of Russia – in this way simply and comprehensively the people have charcterized the high mission of St. Sergius of Radonezh. His wise and firm word of a mentor provided spiritual basis, support in the difficult period of foreign invasion and internal strife. It was then when his prophetic words were said: "We shall be saved by love and unity". That appeal, filled with an unshakable faith, has served to the integration of Russian lands, forever made its place in souls of our people, in our historical memory" – in such a way Vladimir Putin has described the role of St. Sergius of Radonezh, the great ascetic and spiritual guardian of Russia, the founder of Trinity-Sergius Lavra, in the life in Russia.

Together with the Patriarch of Russian Orthodox Church, Vladimir Putin has visited the Assumption Cathedral of Trinity-Sergius Lavra as well as the Holy Trinity Cathedral built on the burial site of St. Sergius of Radonezh, looked at the cell of the Saint.

The press-service of the President of Russia

Photo by the press-service of the President of Russia