MOSCOW, July 8 (RIA Novosti) - Russia marked...
Festivities in Moscow and other regions included charity concerts and other events involving orphans, newlyweds and elderly couples.
Orthodox churches said special prayers for family wellbeing and the country, whose population has been dwindling steadily since the Soviet collapse endangering economic development, its role on the world stage and even territorial integrity.
A 16th-century tale recounts how Prince Peter, who ruled the Russian city of Murom in the 13th century, was cured of leprosy by a young peasant woman, Fevronia. The prince married Fevronia, but they had to live through many hardships because of their unequal status.
The couple was banished from Murom when the prince gave up the throne for love. But the people of Murom called the wise prince back. He was a fair ruler and happy in his married life.
The loving spouses are said to have died the same day in 1228 after being ordained as a monk and nun.