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EQUALITY AND DIGNITY FOR ALL - ALL ARE WELCOME IN CHRIST

News Article: A Humble Worker in the Vineyard of Our Lord - In the Church and in the World


Introduction to Radislav (Rutherford) I

    His Apostolic Highness the Most Holy Prince-Bishop Radislav (Rutherford) I, Roman-Ruthenian Pope, is Chief of the Roman-Ruthenian Church and State. He leads this ancient Orthodox and Old Catholic communion with a mission of compassion, service, and global outreach. In ecclesiastical settings, he is formally styled as Radislav — a Slavic name rooted in his apostolic and dynastic heritage — while Rutherford remains commonly used in academic and professional circles.  Both names, however, are often used interchangeably by those who know him, reflecting the breadth of his service and personal approachability. His approachable demeanor and commitment to fostering meaningful collaboration have made him a trusted leader on the global stage. With over 25 years of international diplomatic and executive leadership experience, he is widely recognised for empowering individuals and cultivating partnerships that create transformative change. Respected for his kindness and approachability, he fosters an environment where everyone feels valued and heard. Connecting on a human level, his philosophy centers on uplifting others, leaving a legacy of positivity and kindness in his wake.

Leadership and Diplomatic Experience

    A highly respected administrator, Prince-Bishop Radislav combines empathy and data-driven strategies to inspire and guide teams to exceed their goals. His work regularly includes offering expert policy advice to the United Nations General Assembly and the Economic and Social Council on critical global issues, such as humanitarian aid, sustainability, and social justice. His leadership approach balances compassion with strategic foresight, helping to shape effective solutions on the world stage.


The Prince-Bishop in uniform of the Pontifical Ruthenian Naval Guard, a division of the Pontifical Walsingham Guard.
He wears the insignia of the Church’s Aquiline Order of Christ, the Pontifical Order of the Eagle, the Order of Saints George and Olga, and other ecclesiastical and dynastic decorations.

Church and Family Heritage

     Being a representative of an ancient ethnic-religious dynasty, the Roman-Ruthenian Pope has also written and spoken extensively about the history of his church and family heritage. Through his work, he emphasises that our histories are not mere footnotes; they are the foundation upon which we build our future. He also served as an Observer at a G20 Summit, highlighting his commitment to fostering dialogue and understanding among diverse cultures and nations. (Learn more about the canonical development and spiritual foundation of the Roman-Ruthenian papacy — a title formally conferred in 2014 on the patriarchal office of the United Roman-Ruthenian Church — in this document published by the Pontifical Court.)

Christian Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Advocacy

     Pope Radislav is a passionate advocate for authentic diversity, equity, and inclusion in all areas of his work. (See the Church's doctrinal position here.) He strives to create a sense of belonging for everyone, regardless of background or affiliation. His experience in government, diplomacy, and academia allows him to transform challenges into opportunities, using his versatile skill set to build stronger, more versatile communities.

Global Outreach and Influence

     Leading an ancient apostolic church, Pope Radislav’s influence extends far beyond the United Roman-Ruthenian Church, reaching Christians and people of all faiths across the globe. His message of unity, compassion, and service resonates with diverse audiences, inspiring individuals to act with kindness and purpose. The Church, under his guidance, serves people worldwide, regardless of race, nationality, or religious belief.


His Apostolic Highness at his desk, where diplomacy, scholarship, and pastoral mission converge.

Educational and Professional Expertise 

   With a background in behavioral science, Prince Rutherford specializes in behavioral economics, artificial intelligence applications, and the economics of culture and religion. His diverse education includes degrees from Harvard University Extension School, Georgia Institute of Technology, and the University of Kentucky, as well as theological training at the Pontifical Georgian College. An international speaker, author, and consultant, he is dedicated to researching and promoting sustainability, economic justice, and social well-being.

Personal Life and Family

    A former high-altitude mountaineer and qualified mariner, Pope Radislav brings a spirit of adventure and resilience to both his personal and professional life. H.A.H. is married to Princess Hanna Alexandrovna, and together, they share a commitment to service and community.  


  Pope Radislav & Princess Hanna

Ecclesiastical Succession and Legacy

     The Roman-Ruthenian Pope's leadership builds on a rich heritage of Christian apostolic and dynastic succession, linking back to Saints Peter, Andrew, and other early apostles, as well the Old Russian House of Rurikovich and its branch of Romanovich, and the Spanish-Italian House of Ivrea, reflecting the Church’s deep historical and spiritual foundations. By virtue of his semi-hereditary and semi-elective office, Pope Radislav I holds a unique position within the Christian world. The Roman-Ruthenian Church and State, which is both Orthodox and Old Catholic, neither controls nor seeks to control political territory, but is a sovereign state unto itself with special consultative status with the United Nations Economic and Social Council since 2019. 

     Read more here.  



Equestrian, High-altitude mountaineering, and Sailing

 Note: H.A.H. Prince-Bishop Radislav I and the P.I. Household, as a matter of their
own policy, are not involved and do not seek to be involved in the governance,
political parties, or politics of any current civil government in any nation. 


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