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Topic: Russian Church
The White Flower Day, an event originally initiated by members of the last Russian Imperial family was held today at the Martha and Mary Convent in Moscow.
Russia's first White Flower Day was originally held in 1911. The Empress Alexandra Feodorovna, aided by her four daughters, the Grand Duchesses Olga, Tatiana, Maria and Anastasia, and her son, the Tsesarevich Alexis, all took an active role in the making of crafts which were then sold to the public. The funds raised from the sale of these items, including bunches of white flowers were then distributed to local charities, who helped alleviate the suffering of those in need.
The grand duchesses and the tsesarevich during the White Flower Day festivities at Livadia
Visitors to the Martha and Mary Convent were invited to attend a liturgy in the church, followed by the charity fair on the grounds of the Convent. A string quartet from the Bolshoi Theatre performed in the garden. Other musical events included a concert from children by the parish choir.
Guests could also view the private rooms of the founder of the monastery, Martyr Grand Duchess Elizabeth Feodorovna. The monastery also hosted a unique photo exhibition entitled The Unknown Romanovs, which focused on the many deeds of charity work that Tsar Nicholas II and his family were involved in up until 1917.
The charitable event was also held in other cities across Russia and the Ukraine, including Livadia in the Crimea, where it has become and annual event since 2005.
||| White Flower Day Returns to Livadia (2011) ||| © Paul Gilbert @ Royal Russia. 20 May, 2012
Updated: Monday, 21 May 2012 7:53 PM EDT
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