IX Educational Christmas Readings open in Nizhny Novgorod

The IX educational Christmas readings of the Nizhny Novgorod archdiocese "Prince Vladimir. Russia's Civilized Choice" started their work in the region. Events of the regional stage of the readings will be held in all dioceses from November 27, 2014 till January 27, 2015.

"The enormous public significance of issues of education and upbringing in traditions of Orthodox spirituality and patriotism naturally led to the transformation of traditional Nizhny Novgorod Christmas Educational Readings into a Church and Public Forum, which pays primary attention to issues of education, culture, social service, spiritual and moral education, - Nizhny Novgorod Governor Valery Shantsev noted in his greeting. - I am pleased that the relations between the Government of the Nizhny Novgorod region and the Russian Orthodox Church develop in a good and constructive way."

The Regional Coordinating Council for Cooperation between the Ministry for Education and the Archdiocese effectively works in the Nizhny Novgorod region; joint large-scale projects are being implemented.

"Deeds of education and upbringing bring their fruit. Regional Governor Valery Shantsev takes active part in the Christmas Readings, - Georgy, the Metropolitan of Nizhny Novgorod and Arzamas said. - Our experience of traditions and techniques in the field of interaction and cooperation with the government of the region is always in demand during Moscow All-Russian readings."

This year, the main topic of Christmas readings is the introduction of Christianity into Russia. It is planned to conduct a wide variety of events - meetings, conferences and festivals, pilgrimages, charity events, workshops and days of mercy.