The President of the Republic of Macedonia, Dr. Gjorge Ivanov, sent a congratulation note to the Archbishop of Ohrid and Macedonia, H.H. Stefan and to all Christians on the occasion of the Nativity of Christ - Christmas.

Your Beatitude,

Let me extend to you personally, to all Orthodox Christians, to the members of the Holy Synod of Bishops, to the reverend clergy and monks, my sincere congratulations on the occasion of the great Christian holiday, Nativity of Christ - Christmas.

On this glorious day, we feel joy and gratitude towards the closest, being reminded that the greatest happiness is in the simple things, in the heat of the home and in the moments spent with our family and neighbors, in the noble deeds towards those who need our help, sharing kindness and mutual understanding. Christmas is a celebration of peace, harmony and celebration of unity. Celebrating the birth of Christ, we celebrate the unconditional love as that which a mother gives to a child; we celebrate victory over prejudice, differences and divisions. This holiday reminds us of the teachings of the God's son, to be humane, to share solidarity and be just. In the years to come, coexistence, mutual assistance and respect should be our guide, our hallmark and commitment.

Your Beatitude, congratulating you the great Christian holiday, I wish you good health and peaceful spiritual life. I wish the believers of the Orthodox Christian religion nice holiday atmosphere, surrounded by their loved ones and filled with joy.

Christ is Born!

Dr. Gjorge Ivanov