Russia's Patriarch congratulates Christians on Christmas

Moscow, Jan 2 (UNI) The Patriarch of Moscow and All Russia, Alexei II today congratulated the Othodox Christians on the eve of Christmas on January 7, urging them to 'prove the beauty and strength of the Orthodox faith with their lives'.

''Let joy, faith, prayer and good deeds constitute a life feat of any Orthodox person,'' the Patriarch said in his Christmas message.

Russia, being predominantly Orthodox Christians, celebrates Christmas on January 7 and New Year on January 13, according to the Julian calendar.

Mr Alexei expressed satisfaction that more and more Russians were ''returning to the faith of their fathers, the churches are being filled with parishioners of all ages, millions of people read religious literature and take part in church affairs''.

He also noted the recent progress in the unification of the church in Russia with the overseas Orthodox Church.

''The unity and contacts that were interrupted by the tragic events that shook the country more than 80 years ago are now being restored in what we see God's will,'' he said.

He also expressed concern on the tragic events in the holy land where the Saviour was born two thousand years ago.

''The blood of innocent people was spilled there again. We are praying to God asking Him that the land sanctified by the birth, life, suffering and the ascension of the Saviour has, in the long run, become the place of peace,'' the message said, adding, ''It would be impermissible to justify evil by faith''.

UNI