The message reads, in part:

“The traditions of this holiday are rooted in the ages and are currently being reinstated in Russia. Old temples and monasteries are being restored, and new ones are being built. Moreover, priest training programmes are in progress. It is important that Buddhist organisations are involved in public life and in the discussion of important social issues. They devote considerable attention to working with the younger generation, and they teach young people the values of good, charity and tolerance. Your activities promote the development of dialogue between various religious faiths, as well as stronger friendship and mutual understanding between the peoples of our multi-ethnic country.

“As tradition has it, the White Month is a joyful holiday. This is a time when new opportunities and new hopes emerge. I wish you and your parishioners good health, prosperity and every success in all your good undertakings.”