Belarus President Alexander Lukashenko lights Christmas candle in Holy Spirit Cathedral in Minsk

The President donated the Icon of Mother of God of “Tender Feeling”, made from the 15th century Icon “Tender Feeling” of Malorita, to the Belarusian Orthodox Church. The icon was made using unique wax tempera techniques.

Metropolitan Pavel presented Alexander Lukashenko with the Iveron Icon of the Mother of God, blessed on Mount Athos.

“I wish the Mother of God to defend our people, defend you, the head of this wonderful state, make you stronger, both spiritually and physically. Let the Mother of God guard our Belaya Rus, our good people. Let the new year be blessed, peaceful and successful. Of course, as you always stress, this will largely depend on us. We will pray, work, and the God’s blessing will accompany us,” Metropolitan Pavel said.

Lukashenko lights Christmas candle at Holy Spirit Cathedral in MinskHe presented Belarus President’s son Nikolai with the Orthodox Icon of Guardian-Angel.