Reply of His Holiness Patriarch Aleksei II of Moscow and All Russia

On 16 October 2003, His Holiness Patriarch Aleksei II of Moscow and All Russia sent to the Head of the Russian Imperial House, H.I.H. Grand Duchess Maria Vladimirovna, the following formal patriarchal reply: 

16 October 2003
No. 5238

To Her Majesty
Grand Duchess Maria Vladimirovna

Your Majesty!

I was glad to see You and pray with You at the celebrations of the 100-th anniversary of the glorification of our father among the saints, St. Seraphim of Sarov.

By the Grace of God, these celebrations were carried out in a spirit of unity and spiritual joy, qualities which were borne by the holy elder, ascetic, and intercessor of Sarov himself.

It was with great satisfaction that I learned that Your Chancellery was granted the status as a legal entity and was registered with the state.

The individuals that You indicated in Your letter will be accredited persons charged to undertake official interactions with the Moscow Patriarchate.

May the help and grace of God abide in Your labors and in Your service to our Fatherland.

With deepest respect, 

Aleksei
Patriarch of Moscow and All Russia