Patriarch Alexey II
1929-2008
Patriarch Alexey II (born Alexey Mikhailovich Ridiger) was an outstanding leader of the Russian Orthodox Church and Patriarch of Moscow from 1990 to 2008. His role in the spiritual life of Russia and international church dialogue was significant. Alexey II was born on February 23, 1929, in Tallinn, Estonia, in an Orthodox family of Russian nobility with Baltic-German origins that converted to Orthodoxy in the 18th century. From a young age, he was determined to serve the church, helping his father feed the Russian community in Tallinn and supporting Soviet citizens during the Second World War in camps for displaced persons. As Patriarch, Alexey II played a significant role in promoting religious freedom and interfaith dialogue in Russia and abroad. He encouraged the development of church-state relations and contributed to the revival of religious life in post-Soviet Russia. His leadership was characterized by a deep understanding of the complexities of contemporary society and a commitment to serving the spiritual needs of his flock. After the end of the war, Alexey attended Leningrad Theological Seminary and then continued his studies at Theological Academy, graduating in 1953 with a thesis on the life of Metropolitan Filaret (Drozdov). He became a deacon in 1950 and later a priest, preaching and teaching parishioners in Estonia. In 1961, Alexy became a monk and was appointed as Bishop of Tallinn and Estonia, serving as the head of the diocese until 1992. During his tenure, he was known for his international activities, representing the Russian Orthodox Church at various events and conferences. He attended the Assemblies of the World Council of Churches starting in 1961 and participated in their meetings for many years. Alexy also chaired the Conference of European Churches, working to promote dialogue between Orthodox and other Christian churches and strengthen the role of the church in Europe. As the Patriarch of Moscow and All Russia, Alexey II began the revival of the Russian Orthodox Church in the context of the changing political landscape of the Soviet Union. During his tenure, thousands of churches were reopened, monasteries were rebuilt, and social activities increased. Alexey II defended traditional Christian values and advocated for the strengthening of spiritual foundations in society. He paid particular attention to the development of relationships between the church and state in Russia and other countries of the former Soviet Union. With his involvement, the Cathedral of Christ the Savior was restored in Moscow, and cooperation with government agencies strengthened to provide support for the church. The Patriarch saw it as important to strengthen the church’s position and protect its interests in these new socio-political circumstances, despite criticism for its ties to the government. For his many contributions, Alexey was awarded numerous honours, including the Order of Saint Andrew the First, received the State Prize of the Russian Federation and recognition from international organizations for his significant contribution to promoting peace and developing inter-church cooperation. He passed away on December 5, 2008, in Moscow, and was buried in the Epiphany Cathedral. His legacy continues to inspire the Russian Orthodox Church and Orthodox believers worldwide.
Address: Moscow, Volkhonka St., 15
