Aleksandr Lukashenko sends message of respect to Metropolitan Filaret 

    President of the Republic of Belarus Aleksandr Lukashenko expressed appreciation and respect to Metropolitan Filaret, distinguished Patriarch Exarch of All Belarus.

    “Your life is a testimony of devotion to once and for all chosen path – serving God and people, promoting eternal values of faith, love, mercy. You have been the leader of the Belarusian Orthodox Church for thirty-five years. Those were difficult and interesting years full of relentless work and prayer. You are one of those, who restored Orthodoxy in Belarus. Under your leadership hundreds of Orthodox parishes were opened, new churches were built and historical monuments were restored, seminaries and Sunday schools were established. You paid special attention to bolstering traditions of Christian morality, preservation of the spiritual and cultural legacy of the Belarusian nation,” the message of greetings reads.

    “At present the Eastern Orthodox Church is the most popular and respected religious organization in the country. And you, the first Exarch of the Belarusian Orthodox Church, have done a lot to develop the church. You have become a unique example of loyalty to work for many generations of priests and believers,” the head of state stressed.

    Aleksandr Lukashenko remarked that he recalls the meetings and talks with Metropolitan Filaret with warmth and love. “For me you have always been and will remain a wise teacher, a good friend and adviser. I will always admire your optimism, zest for life and a wonderful sense of humor,” the message reads.

    “People in Belarus  unanimously appreciate your work and sincerely thank you for everything you have done for the nation. I am convinced that you will help promote peace and social stability in the society, rouse kindness and humanity in the hearts of people in the future,” the Belarusian President remarked.