President of Russia: The significance of the Christianization of Rus’ can hardly be overestimated

In 2015 Russia marks the 1000th death anniversary of St. Vladimir, Equal-to-the-Apostles. The church equals the deeds of St. Vladimir the Evangelizer of Russia to those of Christ’s Apostles. In the late 13th – early 14th centuries the Russian Orthodox Church proclaimed Prince Vladimir a Saint Equal to the Apostles. The day of his veneration is the Day of Russia’s Christianization.

The head of state in his speech noted: “It is impossible to over-estimate the significance of this event – the acquisition of faith and spiritual support. Christening clearly became a turning point in the history of Russia, in the statehood and culture of this country. It is our common duty to honour this momentous stage in Russia’s development. Gathered here today are representatives of bodies of power, civil unions, the Russian Orthodox and local Orthodox Church hierarchs and representatives of all the traditional religions of Russia, which as a state was built on a multi-ethnic and multi-confessional basis”.

The Christianization of Rus’ has become embedded in the church tradition and the people’s memory alongside the name and deeds of St. Vladimir, Equal-to-the-Apostles. His 1000th death anniversary gave us another opportunity to perceive the scale of his personality as an outstanding creator of Russia, the significance of his decision for generations to come, to perceive the continuity of our age-long history and the unbreakable bond to the legacy left by our ancestors.

Prince Vladimir was destined to become a great ruler. His choice was discerning and extremely responsible and became the source of Russia’s development as a unique country and civilization.

The adoption of Christianity was based on Prince Vladimir’s deep love for his Fatherland, on his serious spiritual reflection, on his search for a single baseline that could unite the people and the dispersed lands.

We remain true to the choice made by Prince Vladimir. We value peace and accord in our multi-ethnic land, working together for its flourishing, treating the traditions of all its people and traditional religions of Russia with respect.