Russia has found a new head of state who received convincing support in the elections. Most of the people voted for continuity in power, for a well-considered and responsible style of leadership, for the rule of law, order and concern for people, for a strong country, reasonably open to the surrounding world. This is precisely the direction you, Vladimir Vladimirovich, have followed in the past months while acting as president of Russia. Now you have taken upon yourself the entire burden of supreme state authority. The Holy Church calls the citizens to honour state leaders and obey them.
Government service requires great sacrifice.
According to St. Philaret of Moscow, a superior must intervene for justice, order, and for the peace of others, not for himself . In the past century our people endured countless sufferings. Today they also have a hard time. But in the new century and new millennium into which the country has entered under the leadership of a new president, the sons and daughters of Russia deserve a better fate. Therefore I call you, Vladimir Vladimirovich, to show comprehensive and persistent concern for the welfare of the people the welfare not only material but also spiritual.