2015-11-15. The Head of the House of Romanoff sends her congratulations to Metropolitan Platon of Feodosia and Kerch on his 75th birthday

FROM THE HEAD OF THE RUSSIAN IMPERIAL HOUSE

To His Eminence Metropolitan Platon
of Feodosia and Kerch

Your Eminence,

I congratulate you with all my heart on your 75th birthday.

You chose the path of service to the Holy Church during a time of great persecution and have labored much in the vineyards of Christ.

You began your archpastoral service in South America, and for many years you brought the light of Orthodoxy to your countrymen living there and to the citizens of other countries who sought to know more about our Faith.

Later, you administered various eparchies in Russia and did much to facilitate the return to the Church of its monasteries, church buildings, and relics, icons, and other sacred objects.

Now you are one of the most influential hierarchs of the Ukrainian Orthodox Church of the Moscow Patriarchate, nourishing your flock with love and wisdom in the See of Feodosia and Kerch in Crimea.

The memory of our meetings and of the times we prayed together remain in my heart.

I pray for your health and for God’s gracious help in all your many good endeavors.

My son and Heir, Grand Duke George of Russia, joins me in sending these warm congratulations to you.

Asking your archpastoral prayers and blessing, I remain ever yours in respect and affection,

H.I.H. The Grand Duchess Maria of Russia

Madrid
November 4/17, 2015