Reply of His Holiness, Patriarch Aleksei II of Moscow and All Russia, to the congratulatory letter sent to Him by H.I.H. Grand Duchess Maria Vladimirovna on the occasion of the 15-th anniversary of His Holiness’s enthronement as Patriarch

Your Highness!

I send my heartfelt thanks to you for your letter congratulating me on the 15-th anniversary of my patriarchate, and for your kind words.

In that the problems of the spiritual health of the people occupy the center of attention in society, I see also the positive effects of your efforts, Your Highness.

Peace-making and charity, morality, and the preservation of our cultural inheritance—these are only some of the areas where we have worked together.

I express to you my hope that in the future we will continue to support fruitful mutual activities.

We have one history and one future. I believe that, through cooperative efforts, we can do much for the prosperity of our people.

I likewise wish you and your relatives health and success in all your godly affairs.

May the Lord help you in your endeavors.

With deepest respect,

Aleksei II
Patriarch of Moscow and All Russia