The Russian leader toured the monastery, admiring local sights. The monastery's buildings are, in fact, unique monuments of Russian architecture. Putin was shown into the monastery's refectory, after the excursion wound up. The boys, who are being educated at the children's home, staged a Nativity play before Putin and other guests.
Putin watched the play, subsequently inviting the 26 boys, who are either orphans, or who come from underprivileged families, to drink tea with him, asking them about their way of life, studies and sports games.
Putin congratulated the boys and priests on Christmas Day once again, after the conversation ended. He also wrote the following phrase, "With gratitude and hope. Vladimir Putin", in the visitors' book.
