To Her Imperial Highness

Grand Duchess Maria of Russia

Head of the Russian Imperial House

Your Imperial Highness,

I would like to express my thanks for your heartfelt congratulations and kind gifts on the occasion of my 70th birthday.  I greatly appreciate the service you render to the Russian Orthodox Church and the support you offer to its First Hierarch.

The efforts of the clergy and laity of the Moscow Patriarchate, working together with various state and civic leaders, helps to promote timeless spiritual and moral values in the lives of our countrymen, strengthens friendly relations between peoples and nations, and helps to create peace and civil harmony in society at large.  I look forward to working with you in the future on these very important issues.

I wish you strength of body and spirit, God’s help, and much success in all your future endeavors.

With respect,

KIRILL

Patriarch of Moscow and All Russia