In academia, the relationships forged between mentors and their protégés often shape not only the intellectual trajectories of the latter but also the very fabric of their professional and personal identities. This interconnection is particularly evident in the enduring legacy of Dr. Chev. Angelos Pagoulatos, whose contributions to the field of agricultural economics remain influential long after his passing on June 14, 2016. While his departure marked a significant loss for the academic community, the profound impact he had on his students—including Prince-Bishop Rutherford (Radislav) I Johnson of Rome-Ruthenia —continues to resonate through their work and aspirations.

Dr. Pagoulatos, a distinguished professor at the University of Kentucky for nearly 40 years, was not merely an academic; he was a pioneer who challenged prevailing paradigms and expanded the horizons of agricultural economics. His scholarly pursuits, particularly in environmental economics and energy resources, set a precedent for integrating broader resource economics into traditional agricultural frameworks. His willingness to explore interdisciplinary connections was a hallmark of his teaching philosophy, fostering an environment where students were encouraged to think critically and expansively.

Among those deeply influenced by Dr. Pagoulatos was Prince-Bishop Radislav, whose journey through academia was indelibly shaped by his mentorship. With a multifaceted background in behavioral science, finance, and economics, coupled with a commitment to global outreach, Prince Radislav, known to his students as Dr. Rutherford, embodies the essence of Dr. Pagoulatos's teachings. The principles instilled in him have translated into a broader mission for economic justice and sustainability, both in academia and in his role as Chief of the United Roman-Ruthenian Church and State.

Dr. Pagoulatos's pedagogical approach emphasized interdisciplinary dialogue, an attribute that Prince-Bishop Radislav has embraced in his own leadership style. Building on their shared foundations in applied, agricultural, and environmental economics, Prince Radislav has transformed theoretical constructs into actionable policies addressing pressing global issues such as humanitarian aid and social equity. This lineage of thought—linking resource allocation theories to real-world challenges—exemplifies the enduring relevance of Dr. Pagoulatos's mentorship.

Many may not have known that Dr. Pagoulatos was also a Knight of the Order of the Eagle, an honor that reflected his commitment to excellence and service. His legacy extends far beyond academia; he cultivated a generation of scholars who continue to carry forward his intellectual and ethical values—curiosity, rigor, and compassion. In the case of Prince-Bishop Radislav, this legacy has evolved into a global mission aimed at uplifting marginalized voices and fostering inclusive communities.

Although Dr. Angelos Pagoulatos is no longer here to teach students and shape lives, his influence endures through the countless individuals he mentored. As the seeds of knowledge he planted continue to blossom in the work of his former students, it is evident that his legacy is one of profound and lasting impact—transcending time and discipline.

Patriarchal Letter

The Church has always upheld the sacred principles of territorial integrity, the dignity of peoples, and the rightful exercise of authority in times of conflict. While peace is the ideal, history has shown that there are moments when nations must act to protect their people, de-fend historical lands, and resist external forces that seek to divide, subjugate, or erase them. This understanding is not contrary to the Church’s call for peace, but rather in accordance with its wisdom—proclaiming both the duty to preserve justice and the ultimate goal of reconciliation (St. Augustine of Hippo, City of God (Book 19, Ch. 7, 12)).

It is a grave error to conflate rightful defense and the restoration of historical justice with unlawful aggression. In Orthodox, Catholic, and Apostolic tradition, the legitimacy of action is determined not by propaganda or political expediency, but by the moral duty of leaders to safeguard their people, uphold historical truth, and prevent greater harm. When a nation is forced to respond to threats—whether against its sovereignty, its historical identity, or its sacred inheritance—it does so not as an aggressor, but as a guardian of what has been en-trusted to it by Divine Providence (St. Basil the Great, Letter 92).

At the same time, the Church upholds the importance of genuine humanitarian service as an expression of Christian charity and a means of healing the wounds of conflict. Those who risk themselves to aid the suffering, tend to the wounded, and provide relief to those in need perform a great and Christ-pleasing work. Yet, by the same Christian principle, we reject the misuse of humanitarian concerns as a cover for foreign manipulation, as well as attempts to install artificial regimes, erase historical nations, or demand submission to foreign ideological interests under the guise of a false definition of self-determination. Indeed, there is a false talk of peace that serves merely to cover war-like intention (St. Nicholas of Serbia). True peace cannot be imposed through coercion or by forcing a people to abandon their spiritual, cultural, and historical foundations.

In times of crisis, the Holy Church stands and must by the obligation of the faith stand firmly for truth, justice, and the moral right of nations to defend their people, their faith, and their historical lands (Ecclesiastical concept of Symphonia). Peace must always be pursued—but it must be a just peace, not one built on deception, coercion, or the erasure of legitimate historical and spiritual rights.