“In these joyous days, special attention is given to the main Christian and general human values—care for our neighbor, compassion and patience, love and mutual understanding.

 

“The Feast of the Nativity of Christ brings every person joyful hopes, strengthens our faith in the better, fills us with the noble feelings of kindness and mercy.

 

“I wish all of you good health, optimism, and success! May the new year be prosperous and peaceful for you and all people who live in our multiethnic country!

 

Aleksandr Beglov, Governor of St. Petersburg”