Metropolitan Veniamin: importance of spirituality always enhances at historic moments crucial for mankind

A protreptic speech of Metropolitan Veniamin of Minsk and Zaslavl, Patriarchal Exarch of All Belarus, is an important tradition accompanying the ceremony of presenting the Presidential awards

The Head of the Belarusian Orthodox Church warmly greeted those present, noting that they are engaged in God-pleasing work for the good of their Motherland. “Christmas became a turning point in human history and the history of the entire Universe. The Son of God became the son of man. At crucial moments in the history of mankind, the importance of spirituality always increases, and the role of each person’s deeds is growing significantly,” he said.

Metropolitan Veniamin addressed the awardees, “You have received a special high award today. May this event inspire you and everyone present here to new blessed labours for the benefit of our dear Fatherland, for the benefit of those who are close to us and those who are far away – to the glory of our Lord. On this holy evening, we call upon God's blessing for the labours of each of those present. May peace, harmony and God’s love stay with all of you.”