MINSK, 8 January (BelTA) – Belarus President Alexander Lukashenko paid a visit to the Church of All Saints in Minsk on Christmas celebrated by Orthodox Christians on 7 January, BelTA has learnt.
The head of state together with Metropolitan Pavel of Minsk and Slutsk, Patriarchal Exarch of All Belarus lit up a Christmas candle in John the Baptist chapel. The Belarusian leader and Metropolitan Pavel exchanged presents. Alexander Lukashenko presented Metropolitan Pavel with a tea set with the images of the Holy Spirit Cathedral.
In turn, the Primate of the Belarusian Orthodox Church presented the President with a facsimile copy of the old gospels.
Students of the Sunday school recited poetry to the Belarusian head of state. Alexander Lukashenko also listened to the Christmas carols performed by the male choir.
Alexander Lukashenko had a cup of tea with Metropolitan Pavel.
Before visiting the church Alexander Lukashenko and his son Nikolai laid flowers to the Monument to Patriarch Alexy II.
Source: Belarusian Telegraph Agency
