Dear countrymen,

I cordially congratulate you on this remarkable date for the entire Orthodox
world, the 1020th anniversary of the Epiphany of Russia.

The significance and secrecy of this great event have not faded over time,
but are interpreted and experienced by every new generation in their own
way.

The adoption of Orthodoxy became a watershed moment for Eastern Slavs. The
loftiness of the Christian doctrine, its force and authority have brought
about moral transformation and purification of people.

The Church has played an important role in asserting the moral values and
ideas of our people. From century to century, it has been preserving and
passing on the best traditions of mercy, diligence and loyalty to the
Motherland. The Christianity has helped to mould such traits of the national
character as selflessness, tolerance, compassion and sense of justice.

And today the Orthodox Church remains committed to its service to God and
Homeland, is a pure well of wisdom and hope; it unites the society, helps
preserve stability and consent in our Belarusian house.

I wish good health, successes in good deeds and undertaking, happiness,
peace and well to you.

Alexander Lukashenko

24 October 2008