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| The anniversary portrait of His Apostolic Highness Prince-Bishop Rutherford I of Rome-Ruthenia serves as a powerful symbol of the continued relevance of this ecclesiastical dynastic lineage. |
ROME-RUTHENIA 25 October 2024
Today, on the Feast of Saint Edwin Caudill, Apostolic Founder and Confessor, we begin the formal celebration of the 20th anniversary of the restoration of the Pontifical and Imperial Household of the Roman-Ruthenian Church and State. While the anniversary year officially falls in 2025, we begin these commemorations on this significant feast day, inviting reflection on the unique heritage, spiritual depth, and dynastic legacy of this remarkable house. It is a legacy that intertwines ancient ecclesiastical authority, imperial tradition, and a commitment to humanity through philanthropy and cultural preservation. The work of the household over the last 20 years has seen special status with the United Nations for the ethno-religious nation, participation in major world events, and a restoration of a global network dedicated to preserving ethnic heritage and doing good for those who need it most.
A Living Legacy of Spiritual and Dynastic Heritage
The P.I. House of Johnson-Roma-Rus' stands as a bridge between past and present, embodying the living heritage of the Rurikovich, Romanovich, and Ivrea dynasties. These ancestral roots trace back to medieval Europe and the ancient Roman Empire and Old Russian State, making the House a custodian of history that stretches across millennia and continents. The restoration, now celebrating 20 years, has not only brought to life the rich traditions embodied by the Roman-Ruthenian Church and State, but also reaffirmed the House's commitment to unity, philanthropy, and Christian service.
The United Roman-Ruthenian Church and its temporal wing, the Pontifical Imperial State hold a special place in the world as a unifying force between the Eastern and Western Christian traditions. This House is deeply rooted in both the Latin West and Byzantine East, serving as a beacon of the Orthodox and Old Catholic heritage, transcending the Great Schism of 1054.
The Prince-Bishop of Rome-Ruthenia—H.A.H. Rutherford I—presides over a global ethno-religious minority that brings together diverse liturgical and theological traditions from the ancient Apostolic Sees of Rome, Constantinople, Syria, Russia, and Armenia. This unique convergence represents the House’s mission to preserve the unity of Christianity while honoring the distinct traditions of the East and West.
A Beacon of Compassion and Philanthropy
The Pontifical and Imperial Household is not just a custodian of ancient traditions, but also a modern force for good. Rooted in the core values of Christian love, the family has dedicated itself to philanthropic efforts around the world. Over the past two decades, they have worked to further education, healthcare, and social welfare, always striving to uplift the less fortunate and promote compassion in a world too often divided by inequality.
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| H.A.H. visiting a remote Chinese village in the early years of his ministry as a bishop. |
This 20th anniversary celebration also highlights the ongoing work of the P.I. Household in interfaith dialogue, aimed at fostering understanding and mutual respect among different religious and cultural communities. The family believes that true Christian love transcends differences and seeks to build bridges where others may see only walls.
Honoring Cultural Heritage and History
One of the most enduring aspects of the dynastic household of the Church is its role as a guardian of culture and history. The family has carefully preserved sacred texts, ancient artifacts, and religious traditions that speak to the shared heritage of Christianity across the ages. Their work in historical preservation has ensured that these treasures are not lost to time but continue to inspire future generations.
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| Coat of arms of the house, also used as the coat of arms of the United Roman-Ruthenian Church. |
At the heart of this effort is the desire to protect and share the rich cultural legacy inherited from Rurikovich, Romanovich, and Ivrea dynasties, as well as their connections to the founding families of Massachusetts and other North American colonies. These cross-cultural ties—from Europe to the Americas—reflect the house’s global reach and the timeless relevance of its mission.
Looking Forward: 20 Years and Beyond
As the Pontifical and Imperial Household marks 20 years since its restoration, the future looks bright. Their work in fostering unity, promoting Christian values, and empowering communities continues to make a lasting impact. The symbols of the house serve as both a reflection of the past and a vision for the future.
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| H.A.H., then as Archbishop of the Southwest, delivers food and supplies to those in need. |
Through the lens of history, the house’s influence as spiritual leaders, philanthropists, and cultural ambassadors will only grow. Their mission remains steadfast: to inspire the world to embrace the values of harmony, compassion, and unity in a way that bridges cultures, traditions, and peoples.
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| T.A.H. the Prince-Bishop and Apostolic Princess of Rome-Ruthenia |
The Pontifical and Imperial Household of Johnson-Roma-Rus’ is more than just a dynastic family; it is a symbol of what it means to lead with grace, integrity, and purpose in a complex world. Their ongoing journey is a reminder that authentic Christian legacy is not about power or prestige but about service to humanity.
