The President of the Republic of Macedonia, Dr. Gjorge Ivanov, on the occasion of the great Christian holiday of the Assumption of the Holy Mother of God, sent a congratulation message to the Head of the Macedonian Orthodox Church, the Ohrid Archdiocese, Archbishop of Ohrid and Macedonia, H.H. Stefan, and to all Orthodox Christians.

Your Holiness,

Let me extend my sincere congratulations to you personally, to all Orthodox believers, members of the Holy Synod and the whole clergy and monks, on the occasion of the great Christian holiday of the Assumption of the Holy Mother of God.

On this great Christian holiday, we celebrate the heavenly ascension of the Mother of God. Celebrating life, love and devotion of a mother for her child, we celebrate the Christian principles and values of fairness, forgiveness, humanity and kindness. Her life, her meaning and commitment to the faith shall be our guide to the respect of the mother who gives life, love and patience. She teaches us to honor the loved ones, to share love and care for the closest and to help those most in need.

In the Republic of Macedonia, the Mother of God is respected and celebrated as the protector of all women and mothers, guardian of all Christians. Her assumption symbolizes the immense faith and belief in humanity, peace and understanding.

May the Mother of God be holy, eternal and respected!

Dr. Gjorge Ivanov