Link to the video of the full Hierarchical Divine Liturgy (Russian Orthodox Appx 2.5 hrs)
The national narrative of “greats” also stands at odds with academic interpretations, which take a critical perspective of both Nicholas II’s often inept governance and of the Bolsheviks’ violent excesses. But the canonization of Nicholas II and his family by the Russian Orthodox Church as Christian martyrs in 2000 diminished their identity as political actors subject to academic scrutiny. In Yekaterinburg, where the largest events marking the centennial of the Romanovs’ deaths are being held, the Romanovs are martyred saints revered by devoted pilgrims, with virtually no reference to politics, policies or ideology. - Ala Graff
And finally, one cannot help but wonder if the Russian Revolution and all that followed after was God’s judgment on the sins of tsars.
It does not surprise me that the British monarchy survived. Hardly perfect obviously, but when push came to shove at the most crucial moments of their people — they rose to the occasion in a way that honored and glorified God.
Can’t say the same for the monarchies that fell.