July 8 is the Day of Love, Family and Faithfulness. On the occasion of this national holiday, Head of the DPR Denis Pushilin presented deserved awards and valuable gifts to large families and couples who have lived more than fifty years together. According to a correspondent of the official website of the Donetsk People’s Republic, in the opinion of the Head of State, these people are an exemplar of human love and fortress of family ties, bearers of traditional values of our people.

“Dear friends, I congratulate you on the Day of Love, Family and Faithfulness!

All of Russia celebrated it for the first time in 2008. This is how the state responded to the desire of its citizens to revive the veneration of orthodox Saints Peter and Fevronia of Murom, who represent marital fidelity in the Russian national consciousness.

This holiday, which is designed to revive traditions and strengthen the family institution, was declared in the Donetsk People’s Republic in 2015. It is aimed at strengthening the family foundation, instilling in children respect for the history of their kin and love for the Motherland. This day, in fact, can be considered a reference to the origins and true values. It is very important for all of us to keep these important spiritual and moral ideals. That is why the warmest words of respect and admiration today are addressed to those who devoted their lives to the creation of a big and harmonious family, to parents having many children.

Dear friends, at the first view it becomes clear that peace, coziness and mutual understanding reign at your homes. And the atmosphere that your children are brought up in is warm and cordial. You give your children a worthy example.

Large families are the pride and value of every country. The state’s priority talk is to give comprehensive support to families with many children.

On the Day of Love, Family and Faithfulness, my wish for you is that nothing and never will ever darken your family happiness. And that there will be no obstacles on your life path. Let your children be healthy and let they always keep you happy with their achievements.

Dear friends, on this day I especially want to single out all your merits and present you with state decorations,” Denis Pushilin said.

Nine state decorations—Badges for the Merits in the Upbringing of Children—were presented to parents having many children, in addition, they and married couples who have lived together for more than fifty years were given valuable presents.

The Head of State also listened attentively to a number of questions, requests and wishes they addressed to him.