Alexii II (Patriarch of Moscow). (№ 235135)

Patriotism is, undoubtedly, relevant. It is a feeling that makes the people and each person is responsible for the life of the country. Without patriotism there is no such responsibility. If I don't think about your people, I have no home, no roots. Because the house is not only a comfort, it is also responsible for the order in it is responsible for the children that live in this house. A man without patriotism, in fact, is not their country. A "person of peace" is the same as a homeless man.
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And here another very important. The feeling of patriotism in any case should not be confused with feeling of hostility towards other Nations. Patriotism in this sense is consonant with Orthodoxy. One of the main precepts of Christianity, do not do to others what you don't want done to you. Or as it sounds in the Orthodox creed with the words of St. Seraphim of Sarov: save yourself, acquire the spirit of peace and thousands around you will be saved. The same patriotism. Don't destroy others and create themselves. Then others will treat you with respect. I think today we is the main task of the patriots: the creation of their own country.