2024-09-13 A Message from the Head of the Russian Imperial House, H.I.H. The Grand Duchess Maria of Russia, to the organizers of and participants in celebrations marking the 100th anniversary of the publication of the Manifesto by Grand Duke Kirill Vladimirovich accepting the title of Emperor-in-Exile.
My dear Countrymen,
A century has passed since the day when my grandfather, Grand Duke Kirill Vladimirovich, announced his acceptance of the title of Emperor-in-Exile and of the rights and duties deriving from that position.
As the senior member of the senior branch of Our House, he could not decline the responsibility imposed upon him by the Confirmation Charter of the Assembly of the Land of 1613 and by the Fundamental Laws of the Russian Empire.
At the time that he issued his Manifesto, many were convinced that the Great Troubles, which began in 1917, would soon end with the restoration of Russia’s historical form of government, which, indeed, happened at the beginning of the 17th century. As it happened, however, many more disasters and difficult trials lay ahead for Russia. But despite all the political changes and upheavals, the House of Romanoff was and remains one of the symbols of the continuity of Russian history, and of the unity of its civilizational space. It is thanks to the Manifesto of Emperor-in-Exile Kirill Vladimirovich that our dynasty has survived not only as a family—though partially exterminated and scattered by the revolution across different countries of the world—but also as a historical institution that continues to support and serve the nation’s spiritual, legal and cultural foundations.
Today, by the grace of God, the Russian Imperial House has resumed its participation in the social and cultural life of its homeland. In cooperation with Federal and regional governments, the Orthodox Church and other traditional faith communities, and civil society, we work today to support our fellow citizens to preserve our nation’s traditional values, help those in need, protect and maintain our cultural and natural heritages, strengthen religious, ethnic, and civil peace, and promote Russian culture throughout the world. And as has always been the case, the entirety of our national historical heritage, both its symbolic and practical aspects, continues to exist and have use today, “not for personal glory,” as Kirill I wrote in his Manifesto, “nor for vain honours, but for fulfilling our duty to God, conscience and homeland.”
I thank all who have gathered during these solemn days to pray for the repose of the soul of my grandfather and for the commemoration of his life.
I wish you all good health, strength of spirit to endure the trials of our times, a peaceful life, and all good things from Above. May God bless you all!
[The original is signed by Her Imperial Highness’s own hand:]
MARIA
Madrid, 31 August/13 September 2024