On July 17, a procession of the Cross took place from the city of Khotkovo to Sergiev Posad in commemoration of the 700-th anniversary of the birth of Sergiy Radonezhsky. Over fifty thousand pilgrims took part in the event. Sergei Moronov, Chairman of Party A JUST RUSSIA made comments on the given event:

The year of 2014 is the year of the 700th anniversary of Sergiy Radonezhsky. Although arguments among historians about the exact date of his birth still continue, such uncertainty about the date and the month is a good reason for celebration of the Jubilee all year round, as it was actually planned. It is natural that at present the main festivities are taking place in the city owing its birth to no one but Sergiy – Sergiev Posad.

Of course, this holiday is not a local one; it is even something more than just an all-Russian celebration. Sergiy Radonezhsly is particularly respected not only in all orthodox countries but even a lot of Catholics feel piety for him.

There is nothing surprising about it because we can find just a few people in the world history whose role in both religious life and in life of the states and nations is so prominent.

Our national identity has a lot of roots and sources. Sergiy Ranonezhsky stood at one of the strongest and life-giving sources. The fact that celebration of the Jubilee of this great man of faith makes us go back to the roots of our spirituality at the moment when Russia is facing the new challenges means that Blessed Sergius of Radonezh has been continuing his service for Russia.