Greeting of the 4th Grand Prior

Dear Commanders, Knights and Dames, Squires and Sergeants! Beloved Brothers and Sisters in Christ!

I address you as one of you. Many years ago, when I received the white mantle, I gave myself my word: if there is no one to carry the banner, I will carry it — not by my own strength, but with God’s help. Since then I have often seen that the banner cannot be held alone. We all hold it together, each in our place — so it was from the first days of the Order, and so it remains now.

Service in the Order is rarely loud. More often it is simple things: calling a brother when he is heavy-hearted, coming when hands are needed, helping whoever is near — by deed, by counsel, and sometimes simply by attention. It is not always possible to do all one would wish. But it matters not to pass by and at least to try — the Lord sees the attempt as well. Now I have been entrusted to keep the memory and spirit of the Order, and I take this as one more such task: quiet, yet needful for those who will come after us.

Trials do not end with years or with rank. Circumstances change; weariness and doubt come; someone leaves. A knight’s steadfastness is not never to fall, but to rise, to pray, and to go on. This inner work is not seen from outside, yet it is what keeps the mantle white. Care for one another and for your loved ones. May the Lord keep you!

NON NOBIS, DOMINE, NON NOBIS, SED NOMINI TUO DA GLORIAM!
Sincerely your Brother in Christ
‡ Alexey Igorevich ARDALIN
4th Grand Prior of the Order in Russia
Audiutor Magnus Magister Scriptor
Knight Grand Cross · 082.0154