Is the UN Biased Against Traditional Religion? The URRC's Experience

By M. Derosiers 

NEW YORK 11 July 2026 (NRom)

The United Roman-Ruthenian Church has been an organization in special consultative status with the United Nations Economic and Social Council (ECOSOC) since 2019. In that role, it regularly participates in meetings and provides invited statement on matters of world importance. Recently, the Church's UN representatives submitted an invited statement for the 2026 ECOSOC High-Level Segment. This statement focused on the need for ethical frameworks in the SDG implementation process and spoke of the role religious organizations should play. The statement was rejected by the UN staff. 

Below is copied the statement, the rejection issued by the ECOSOC staff, the Church’s response, and the subsequent reply that did not address the substance of its objection.

The Church’s statement expressly addressed the 2030 Agenda and the ethical, social, institutional, technological, and environmental framework necessary for transformative and coordinated implementation of the Sustainable Development Goals. The stated reason for rejection — that the submission was not focused on the annual theme — is therefore difficult to reconcile with the text itself.

Viewed together with periodic prior rejections of religiously grounded submissions, the continued failure to update the Church’s recognized legal name despite repeated documentation, vague demands for unspecified “correct documents,” and the absence of substantive responses to requests for clarification, this record raises serious concerns regarding systemic bias against traditional religious perspectives within the participation process.

Readers may review the complete documents below and reach their own conclusions.

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2026 session
13 - 16 July 2026
ECOSOC High-Level Segment

Objective 

This statement is submitted by the Holy Apostolic See of the United Roman-Ruthenian Church in the context of ongoing deliberations on the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development. Speaking on behalf of His Holiness the Roman-Ruthenian Pope, we offer a perspective founded on longstanding moral and social tradition concerning the dignity of the human person and the foundations of authentic development. We present these reflections as a contribution to advancing a vision of development that is integral, just, and ordered toward the true flourishing of all.

Statement

Flowing from the perennial social doctrine and living Tradition of the Church, the Holy Apostolic See of the United Roman-Ruthenian Church, on behalf of His Holiness the Roman-Ruthenian Pope, affirms that authentic development must be integral, promoting the dignity of the whole human person, body and soul, created in the image of God, and the flourishing of every community. Economic, social, and environmental policies cannot be considered in isolation from moral law and natural order, which safeguard human dignity and the common good.

We emphasize that the family, founded upon the sacrament of marriage, is the fundamental unit of society and the primary agent of sustainable development. Policies that strengthen family stability, protect life at all stages, and uphold parental rights in education are essential to long-term social and economic resilience. Development strategies that neglect these risk undermining the very communities they seek to support.

In advancing the 2030 Agenda, we urge renewed commitment to subsidiarity, solidarity, and authentic communion among persons and communities. Local communities, faith-based organizations, and civil society actors possess irreplaceable knowledge and capacity to address poverty, inequality, and environmental challenges. Their role should be strengthened through just and equitable partnerships.

We call for an ethical framework to guide technological progress. While innovation can serve the common good, it must remain ordered towards truth and never instrumentalize human life, diminish moral responsibility, or reduce the human person to an object of efficiency, manipulation, or control.

Care for creation flows from reverence for the Creator and recognition of the world as a gift. Environmental action must therefore respect the legitimate needs of developing nations and the poor.

Lasting transformation requires structural change alongside moral and spiritual renewal grounded in truth, justice, and charity. Without this, efforts toward sustainable development will remain incomplete. We stand ready to collaborate with Member States and stakeholders in promoting a vision of development that is built on justice and the dignity of every person.

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UN ECOSOC Rejection Email: 

Thank you for submitting a written statement for the 2026 High-level Segment of the Economic and Social Council (ECOSOC). We regret to inform you that we were unable to submit your statement to ECOSOC, as the content was not focused on this year’s theme which is: Transformative, equitable, innovative and coordinated actions for the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development and its Sustainable Development Goals for a sustainable future for all, and the theme of the general debate: Delivering better: accelerating urgent and transformative action to achieve the SDGs by 2030.

We hope you will consider contributing to the ECOSOC High-level Segment in the future. In that perspective, we strongly encourage you to tailor any future statement to the intergovernmental body you are contributing to, and in the case of ECOSOC, to focus on its annual main theme, as per the guidance provided in the open call for statements launched for all NGOs in consultative status. As the rationale for seeking views from the NGO community lies in its capacity to provide information and recommendations from the grass root level and in various areas of technical expertise, ECOSOC is expected to receive substantive and well-focused contributions that will help the global policy making process in the field of sustainable development, as per the Council’s mandate.

In the meantime, should you have any questions or require additional information, please contact us.

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Roman-Ruthenian Reply to the United Nations: 

We acknowledge receipt of your decision.

The stated reason for rejection is not supported by the content of the submission. The statement expressly addressed the 2030 Agenda and identified the moral, social, institutional, environmental, and technological framework necessary for transformative, equitable, innovative, and coordinated SDG implementation by 2030. Given the strict word limit, the Church contributed precisely in the area in which it is best positioned to speak as an invited participant.

The rejection therefore gives the strong impression that the statement was not meaningfully read or evaluated on its actual content. Moreover, in light of previous rejections of similarly religiously grounded submissions, this pattern raises a serious concern of systemic bias against faith-based perspectives, notwithstanding repeated claims that diverse civil-society contributions are welcomed.

We are not requesting reconsideration. We are placing our objection to the stated rationale, and our concern regarding the treatment of religious viewpoints, clearly on the record.

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Reply from the United Nations ECOSOC

It appears that you are responding to message #547121.

Thank you for submitting a written statement for the 2026 High-level Segment of the Economic and Social Council (ECOSOC). While your written statement was included in last year’s compilation, we regret to inform you that we were unable to include your statement in this year’s submission to ECOSOC.

We appreciate your interest in contributing to the ECOSOC High-level Segment and hope that you will consider participating in future opportunities.

The Apostolic Household: Service Beyond Ceremony

By A. DiNardo

ROME-RUTHENIA 10 July 2026 (NRom)

When many people hear the word "pope," they naturally think of the Bishop of Rome of the Roman Catholic Church. Christianity, however, has long included other churches whose primates also bear the ancient title of pope. Among these are the Roman-Ruthenian Pope, the Coptic Orthodox Pope of Alexandria, and the Greek Orthodox Pope and Patriarch of Alexandria. Like other historic Christian communions, behind the public ministry of the Roman-Ruthenian Pope stands a household, a family, and a community of service.

T.A.H. the Roman-Ruthenian Pope and Apostolic Princess with
 H.M.S.H. the Duke and Duchess of Lower-Silesia, members of the Pontifical Court

The Apostolic Household, more formally known as the Pontifical and Imperial House of Rome-Ruthenia, consists of the immediate family of the Roman-Ruthenian Pope (Prince-Bishop of Rome-Ruthenia) together with officials entrusted with supporting the life and mission of the Holy Apostolic See. While the Pontifical Court administers the ceremonial and governmental functions of the Church and State, the Household provides the continuity of family, heritage, and daily life that supports the ministry of the Supreme Pontiff.

A Living Household

At the heart of the Household is His Apostolic Highness Pope Radislav I, joined by Her Apostolic Highness Apostolic Princess Anna Alexandrovna, whose support and shared commitment to faith strengthen the worldwide mission of the Roman-Ruthenian Church and State. Like many ecclesiastical  and dynastic houses throughout Christian history, the Pontifical Household is not defined by ceremony alone. It is a family whose members share in the responsibilities of hospitality, representation, cultural preservation, philanthropy, and service.

T.A.H. the Roman-Ruthenian Pope and Apostolic Princess

Its daily affairs are coordinated through the Chancery of the Household under the direction of the Pontifical Majordomo, while the Private Office of His Apostolic Highness assists the Pope in the execution of his personal and pontifical responsibilities.

Service Across the Years

The public may expect most often to see the Roman-Ruthenian Pope celebrating the Divine Liturgy, addressing international audiences, or participating in diplomacy. These are certainly part of His Holiness's obligations. Less visible are the decades of preparation that shape that public ministry. Long before assuming the papacy, Pope Radislav's life encompassed international travel, academic work, humanitarian service, diplomacy, and cultural engagement. These are experiences that continue to inform his ministry today.

Even in childhood, Pope Radislav found himself—quite literally—at the seat of leadership.
Captured here sitting in the Speaker’s chair of the Dutch Parliament,
this unscripted moment reflects the early presence of civic and international
life that would go on to shape his vocation. Far from ceremony, this image
 embodies a quiet foreshadowing of future diplomatic and ecclesiastical leadership.

The Apostolic Household's photographic archive reveals a life lived across many different settings: early visits to historic Christian sites, humanitarian travel, academic work, international conferences, meetings with church leaders and diplomats, humanitarian outreach, outdoor pursuits, and the quieter moments of family life. Taken together, these images document a lifetime devoted to education, faith, diplomacy, and service.

Long before assuming the Roman-Ruthenian papacy, Pope Radislav engaged
with leaders from many walks of public life. Throughout the years, such encounters
have reflected a continuing commitment to dialogue across civic,
academic, religious, and international communities.

Heritage in Service of the Present

The Apostolic Household is also entrusted with preserving the historical traditions associated with the Roman-Ruthenian Church and State. Its heritage reflects influences from both the Latin and Eastern Christian traditions, together with broader European and global historical connections that have shaped the Church's identity over many centuries. Yet heritage is not an end in itself. It is a responsibility; one that calls each generation to preserve what it has received while serving the needs of the present.

Beyond Ceremony

When one thinks of a papacy, images of solemn ceremonies and rich vestments often come to mind. Yet, the work of the Apostolic Household extends well beyond formal occasions. Members support charitable initiatives, encourage interfaith understanding, assist cultural preservation, and represent the Church in educational, humanitarian, and diplomatic settings.

Whether meeting with clergy, scholars, civic leaders, military representatives, or ordinary families, the purpose remains the same: to foster understanding, strengthen relationships, and promote the common good.

A Family Behind the Office

Every public office has a human story behind it. The Apostolic Household reminds us that leadership is sustained not only by institutions, but also by family, faith, and the quiet continuity of everyday life. While the Roman-Ruthenian Pope serves as the visible shepherd of the Church, the Household stands beside him supporting a mission that extends across cultures, traditions, and generations.

Behind every public office is a shared life. Moments of quiet family
companionship sustain the ministry and mission of the Apostolic Household.

Explore the Gallery

The official gallery of the Pontifical Imperial Household offers a visual journey through that story, from early childhood and formative experiences to international diplomacy, humanitarian service, academic life, and the continuing work of the Holy Apostolic See.

View the Gallery here.

Discover the Legacy

The work of the Apostolic Household is a living historical tradition that spans many centuries. Those interested in the broader history of the House, including its historical development, archival images, and the heritage preserved across multiple generations, are invited to explore the legacy page here, which provides a deeper look at the heritage that continues to underpin the Household's mission today.

H.E. Marquis Tony Williams Recognized for Ecclesiastical, Diplomatic, and Nobiliary Service

By A. DiNardo

ROME-RUTHENIA 2 July 2026 (NRom)

Marquis Tony Williams continues his distinguished service across ecclesiastical, diplomatic, and nobiliary institutions connected with the United Roman-Ruthenian Church and affiliated noble houses. Among other roles, Williams serves as Ambassador to the Pontifical Court of the United Roman-Ruthenian Church and holds the title of Chancellor and Adontefia of the Royal House of Gbi Hohoe Ahado. His work is  part of a commitment to faith, tradition, cultural heritage, and service within the wider Christian and noble communities.

His titles include Marquis and Baron of Checua of the Royal and Serene House of Chíquiza, Chancellor of the Ducal House of Checua and Cavaliere Ecclesiastico e Nobile della Chiesa.  These honors recognize his continued dedication to the preservation of historic traditions and ceremonial service.

The dignity of Baroness has also been bestowed upon the Marquis’s wife suo jure (in her own right) by the Royal House of Friuli. By this recognition, she is likewise numbered among the Nobility of the Church in her own right, reflecting her own standing within the ecclesiastical and nobiliary traditions associated with the House.

These distinctions complement a long record of service that includes 22 years in the United States Army, from which he retired as a Master Sergeant. He also holds the ranks of Warrant Officer in the Louisiana State Guard, holds the rank Honorary Colonel of the Pontifical Walsingham Guard, Military Knight and Colonel of the Ecclesiastical Knight Defenders of the Faith. He is also Lord of the Manors of Packwoods and Skeeby, a Companion of the Noble Company of Saint Mary of Walsingham, and a member of the Roman-Ruthenian Nobility Association. 

Through these offices and honors, the Marquis represents a life of service to the nation, grounded in faith, dignity, heritage, and loyalty to the Church and its traditions. Supported by his wife, Baroness of the Royal House of Friuli, his continued work stands as a testament to the timeless importance of spiritual service, cultural stewardship, and honorable leadership within the Christian community.

Coats of Arms Approved for the URRC Russian Province

27 June 2026

The Office of H.A.H. the Most Holy Roman-Ruthenian Pope approved the following coats of arms: 

For H.Em. Cardinal Avgustin of Irkutsk, Baron of Crescencia, Primate of the Russian Lands of the URRC: 

Per pale, dexter (for the See of Irkutsk) per fess Azure and Gules; First: on waves Argent and Azure a Slavic church with walled enclosure Argent upon a mount Vert, accompanied in chief dexter by an estoile and in chief sinister by an Orthodox cross, Or; Second, a flaming heart Or pierced bendwise by an arrow Or; sinister (for the Cardinal himself), Or, a cross nebuly Gules charged at the centre with a flaming heart Or and between four babrs (in the style of Irkutsk) rampant Sable.

     The shield ensigned with a baronial coronet and a mitre of the Gallo-Russo-Byzantine Rite. Behind the shield is placed a crozier. The shield is set beneath a red galero with cords and fifteen tassels pendent on either side.

For the Russian Lands of the URRC:

Per pale, dexter per fess Azure and Gules; First: on waves Argent and Azure a Slavic church with walled enclosure Argent upon a mount Vert, accompanied in chief dexter by an estoile and in chief sinister by an Orthodox cross, Or; Second, a flaming heart Or pierced bendwise by an arrow Or. The shield is surrounded by a gold wreath joined in base with a ribbon of Gules and Azure. Upon the shield is set a mitre of the Gallo-Russo-Byzantine Rite. 

Congregation des Compagnons de Saint Benoît (Congregation of the Companions of St Benedict) in Africa Received into the Catholicate of Rome-Ruthenia

By M. Derosiers

CAMEROON 7 May 2026 (NRom)

The United Roman Ruthenian Church has announced the formal admission of the Congrégation des Compagnons de Saint Benoît (CCSB) into the Catholicate of Rome-Ruthenia, the patriarchal jurisdiction of the Roman-Ruthenian Pope. According to ecclesiastical officials, the decree of admission was enacted through a papal bulla signed by His Holiness on 6 May 2026, marking a significant development in the expanding international relationships and global presence of the Roman-Ruthenian Church and State.

Founded on 11 July 2007 in Cameroon by the Revd Brother Emmanuel Oba’a CCSB/OSB within the Anglican Church of Cameroon, the Congregation of the Companions of St Benedict is a Benedictine religious community composed of priests, brothers, and sisters dedicated to a life of prayer, service, and charitable outreach. The congregation combines monastic spirituality with active ministry, particularly in support of vulnerable children, including orphans, homeless youth, and children affected by poverty and disease. Headquartered at Saint Joseph Priory in Ebolowa, Cameroon, the community follows a semi-contemplative religious life based on the Rule of St Benedict and shaped by commitments to obedience, poverty, chastity, stability, and conversion of life.

The congregation’s liturgical is built on the Roman Rite. Its apostolic works include educational and social initiatives aimed at long-term community development and self-sufficiency. Projects envisioned by the congregation include education, medicine, and hospitality services connected to local charitable ministries.

The admission of the CCSB into the Catholicate is expected to strengthen ecclesial ties between African religious communities and the wider United Roman-Ruthenian Church, which already had a global presence across several continents.

Sources within the Catholicate also noted the distinctive ceremonial tradition surrounding papal bullae issued by the United Roman-Ruthenian Church. The seals bear on the obverse an image of St Stephen the Apostle and Proto-Deacon, while the reverse carries the traditional Seal of the Fisherman depicting St Peter as a fisherman together with the name of the reigning Pope rendered in Russian Cyrillic script.

Eva Duarte Perón Declared Servant of God

 

A. DiNardo

BUENOS AIRES 17 April 2026 (NRom)

The Apostolic Office for the Glorification of the Saints of the United Roman-Ruthenian Church has announced that Eva Duarte Perón has been declared a Servant of God by His Apostolic Highness the Most Holy Pope Radislav I of Rome-Ruthenia. This designation marks an important step in her cause for canonization, which was formally opened in 2025 and remains ongoing.

The Holy Father’s recognition highlights Perón’s widely acknowledged virtues, particularly her lifelong commitment to the care of the poor and marginalized. Her charitable initiatives and advocacy for social justice have been cited as key elements in evaluating her life of Christian witness.

As a Servant of God, Perón’s life will now undergo further theological and historical examination as part of the Church’s discernment process regarding sainthood. The Apostolic Office emphasized that the cause continues to progress, inviting the faithful to reflect on her example and to support the process through prayer.

Metropolitan Archbishop of Irkutsk named Cardinal

His Eminence Cardinal Avgustin,
Metropolitan Archbishop of Irkutsk

M. Derosiers 

IRKUTSK 15 April 2026 (NRom)

His Holiness Pope Radislav I of Rome-Ruthenia has formally assigned His Eminence Cardinal Avgustin of Irkutsk the title of Cardinal Priest of Santa Barbara, showing the importance of the Russian lands to the history and heritage of the United Roman-Ruthenian Church.

Cardinal Avgustin, who serves as Metropolitan Archbishop of Irkutsk and Primate of the Russian Lands in the United Roman-Ruthenian Church, received this designation as part of the longstanding tradition linking members of the College of Cardinals to titular churches. The assignment symbolizes both symbolic membership in the Diocese of Rome-Ruthenia and the Cardinal’s role as a principal advisor to the Holy Father. It also reflects recognition of Cardinal Avgustin’s leadership and pastoral service across the Russian territories under his care.

Church officials note that the title of Santa Barbara carries historic and spiritual significance, reinforcing the unity between local Churches and the Apostolic See.