Ecclesiastical Dynastic Successors to the Houses of Rurikovich, Romanovich, and Ivrea

The Roman-Ruthenian Church and State is the rightful temporal successor of St. Peter, carrying the historical and documented patrimony of Rome and Russia through St. Leo X, with full Orthodox and Catholic autocephalous authority — equal to the Vatican, Constantinople, and other Patriarchates.

The entire extended blood members of the P.I. Household in 2005 — a rare gathering of the princes, counts, and nobles of the dynasty, a living testament to the continuation of European and American aristocratic lineages in the modern age.
Above: His Apostolic Highness the Most Holy Pope Radislav I Rimsko-Russki, Head of the House and custodian of the heritage of the Roman-Ruthenian Church and State.

About the Pontifical and Imperial House of Johnson-Roma-Rus'

The Pontifical and Imperial House of Johnson-Roma-Rus' represents a living legacy that bridges the past and present. As custodians of an ancient dynasty with deep-rooted traditions, the family upholds the spiritual and cultural values of the United Roman-Ruthenian Church and Pontifical Imperial State of Rome-Ruthenia. This unique ecclesiastical monarchy combines both hereditary and elective traditions and continues to serve as a symbol of unity, spirituality, and philanthropy. The House is recognized by various religious and legal entities, as well as other dynastic houses around the world, further solidifying its global standing.

With a heritage that is Roman and Russian, as well as significant ties to the British Isles, North America, and the Caribbean, the Pontifical and Imperial House stands at the crossroads of history, culture, and faith. Their mission is to honor and preserve these legacies while promoting harmony, compassion, and understanding among people of all backgrounds. (Meet the family.)

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Historical Background

The title "Pontifical" refers to the Bishop of Rome-Ruthenia as Supreme Pontiff within the United Roman-Ruthenian Church, while "Imperial" speaks to the house's historical ties to the Roman empire, Kingdom of Ruthenia, and Imperial Italian Kingdom. The Pontifical and Imperial family traces its lineage to the Rurikovich dynasty of Russia and is branch of Romanovich, as well as the Ivrea dynasty, which once ruled the Imperial Kingdom of Italy. (Discover our succession.)

The House of Johnson-Roma-Rus’ also has deep-rooted connections to the early history of North America. For example, the family’s heritage extends to some of the founding families of Massachusetts, including Warren, Winslow, Philipps, Prescott, and Lothropp, who played significant roles in the formation of early American communities. These ties exemplify the family’s global heritage, with historical influences spanning from Europe to the Americas. Complementing these ties are ancestral influences from Arabic, Turkic, Persian, South Caucasian, and Jewish cultures — further reflecting the family’s diverse and global legacy. (See our online gallery.)

This deep historical connection serves as the foundation for the modern-day Pontifical Imperial State. Adding depth and an air of mystery to an already-captivating narrative, the family’s paternal line traces back to the Varyag (Varangian) Norse—a lineage with strong ties to the Kievan Rus’, where Norse adventurers integrated with Slavic nobility to form the early Rus' state. This heritage likely reflects a journey from the East, enriched by connections across Byzantine and Turkic lands, ultimately leading to Europe’s heartlands. Though much of its precise journey westward remains shrouded in mystery due to the passage of time, the family’s origins point to a legacy forged through both Scandinavian and Eastern European connections. Though much of its precise journey westward remains shrouded in mystery due to the passage of time, the family’s origins point to a legacy forged through both Scandinavian and Eastern European connections. (Read more about this legacy here.) Today the Pontifical Imperial State stands as an minority ethno-religious cultural nation without political territory that constitutes a state unto itself, representing people across multiple modern political countries. (Discover the Pontifical Court.)

Vladimir Monomakh (Rurikovich),
Prince of Smolensk,
Grand Prince of Kiev

Alfonso VII (Ivrea), King of Castile y León, Emperor of All Spain

As with most ancient European houses, centuries of intermarriage have intertwined the Johnson-Roma-Rus’ line with many dynasties. For example, through German ancestors, the Head of the House is fifth cousin to the present British King, a reminder of how closely Europe’s noble families remain interwoven. Yet, the standing of sovereign houses is not defined by such interconnections, however notable. Here, the foundation of the Pontifical and Imperial Household rests fundamentally on its own ecclesiastical and imperial patrimony.

Cultural and Religious Influence

The ecclesiastical title of Bishop of Rome-Ruthenia emphasizes its connection to both Latin (Roman, Anglican) and Eastern (Byzantine, Russian, Syrian) traditions within Orthodox and Catholic Christianity. This union brings together diverse liturgical practices, customs, and rituals inherited from various cultural backgrounds. (Learn about their religious history.)

However, the significance of the Pontifical and Imperial family extends beyond religious matters; they also serve as a symbol of unity among traditional Christians worldwide. In addition to their spiritual roles, they are actively involved in state affairs and diplomacy. (Learn more about the Roman-Ruthenian Papacy.)

Rather than being mere figureheads, however, they are ambassadors of Christian love, compassion, and unity. Furthermore, this family plays a vital role in preserving the rich history and traditions of the United Roman-Ruthenian Church. They serve as custodians for ancient texts, artifacts, artwork, and more that hold immense cultural value for people across different nations.

Youssef VI Emmanuel II, Patriarch of Babylon (Syria), one of the immediate patriarchal ancestors in apostolic succession of the Prince-Bishop. The United Roman-Ruthenian Church is a derivative patriarchate of the Patriarchates of Moscow, Bablyon, and America.

The family's dedication to fostering harmony among different communities is evident in their tireless efforts to promote interfaith dialogue and understanding. They believe that through open-mindedness and mutual respect, we can build bridges that transcend cultural barriers and celebrate our shared humanity. They strive to bring people together, regardless of their backgrounds or beliefs.

Philanthropy

In line with their commitment to service, the Pontifical Imperial family actively engages in philanthropic endeavors. They lead by example, working tirelessly to uplift the less fortunate in society. Their initiatives encompass areas such as education, healthcare, food insecurity, social welfare, and more. In a world often divided by conflict and inequality, the Pontifical Imperial Household stands as a beacon of hope and unity, emphasizing that even small acts of kindness can lead to lasting positive change. Join us in making a difference!

Kotyan Khan of the Cumans

Summary

The Pontifical and Imperial House of Johnson-Roma-Rus’ embodies a legacy of service, spirituality, and cultural preservation. Their dedication to unity, philanthropy, and compassion continues to shape their role in today’s world, as they strive to create a brighter, more inclusive future for all.

For more information, explore the rich history of the United Roman-Ruthenian Church, discover the family’s ongoing philanthropic efforts, or learn about their role as ambassadors of Christian love and unity.

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Article by H.A.H. the Prince-Bishop on the Priesthood and Monarchy.