CHRISTMAS GREETINGS OF THE PRESIDENT OF UKRAINE
Dear Ukrainians
For time out of mind, Christmas was one of the chief holidays of our people. At the beginning of the year, when day again conquers night and the light again becomes longer than the dark, it is profoundly symbolic to celebrate the birth of Jesus Christ. After all, he said: "I am the light of the world; whoever follows me will not walk in darkness, but will have the light of life."
Coming into the world, Christ gave us hope, hope for victory over even death, hope for victory over evil. Hope for justice which is so important for Ukraine at the present time of difficult trials that our country is experiencing.
But the birth of Christ is also an enormous heritage of native Ukrainian traditions. Our Christmas carols and crèches speak the very soul of the Ukrainian people. In these genuinely sincere and truly national texts we praise the Newborn and we wish one another happiness.
The secret of the birth of Jesus Christ is for us, the people, a great miracle. It affirms that good must triumph over evil. No matter how much the accursed eastern King Herod raged, he did not gain anything.
We must triumph, as the apostle Paul instructed us: "Put on the breastplate of faith and love and the helmet of the hope of salvation."
I wish for all family warmth and shelter, the blessed Christmas star, and tasty Christmas pudding.
I especially greet the Ukrainian troops who are standing today to the defense of the fatherland. As the holy church protects us spiritually from heaven, so our heroic fighters protect us on earth.
I ask the tiny Jesus for great changes for the better in our Ukraine. For all Ukraine and for each Ukrainian.
The holy evening is at the door—
Bright Christmas for everyone!
May happiness flow like a river,
May well-being be conducted in the family!
May there be harmony among you,
May Jesus not forget you!
Christ is born!
Let us praise him!
(tr. by PDS, posted 8 January 2016)
Russian original posted on RISU site, 6 January 2016
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