Dear brothers sisters in the faith of Abraham, honoured People of the Scriptures, who meet today one of the main celebrations of Christianity - the Nativity of Jesus (Isa)!

These bright days invariably remind people of faith of the greatness of love, humility, and mercy that comes from faith in the Most High Creator. Coming

(Isa) into our world is a great gift of God to people and a triumph of life, uniting billions of people, Christians and Muslims alike, in their unceasing praise of the Almighty and Omnipotent Lord. There is always a place in the heart of the believer for prayerful remembrance of the life of Jesus (Isa) and his blessed mother, the Virgin Mary (Maryam). Their paths have long inspired people of faith to improve themselves by following God's precepts, to direct and turn their prayers, aspirations, thoughts and deeds for the good of the earthly world and the world of men.

We, the Muslims of Russia, by the grace of God, live in a multi-ethnic homeland in harmony with our brothers and sisters in the faith of Abraham, and we note with joy in our hearts the peace-loving efforts of the Russian Orthodox Church in developing and building dialogue with the Muslims of the country and the Islamic world, in strengthening and maintaining brotherly feelings and the foundations of cooperation, mutual assistance and support between believers.

In these days, despite the anxieties and trials that have fallen on all mankind, we tirelessly pray to the Almighty for the dispensation of covenant peace in the Holy Land, peace and tranquillity wherever the sacred name of God is recalled and faith in Him and His immense mercy and goodness is praised.

On these bright Christmas days, dear People of the Scripture, dear Christians, I send you my good prayers and most sincere wishes with all respect and reverence, and I prayerfully ask the Most High Lord to grant us understanding, bless and support everyone in every good endeavour and merciful deed!

Mufti Damir Mukhetdinov,

Acting Chairman of the Religious Board of Muslims of the Russian Federation,

Executive Secretary of the International Muslim Forum