The merciful heart of the young Princess could not remain indifferent to human suffering in Russia. She started helping the ill, the suffering, the poor. She went round people’s homes in her estate, rendering help to those who needed it. She visited hospitals, orphanages, prisons in cities, trying to alleviate pain and instill hope into the hearts of people.

The Grand Prince who was a noble man and a devoted believer understood and supported his wife Elisabeth. She attended Orthodox church services with her husband, although she was a Lutheran. Her responsive heart felt the beauty and mysterious depth of Orthodox service, and her soul was drawn to Orthodox faith. After her pilgrimage to the Holy Land, the Grand Princess made up her mind to join the Orthodox Church. She wrote to her father, “I become Orthodox out of pure conviction, I feel that this religion is the highest one. I do it with deep belief and I feel God’s blessing to do it.”

The courageous heart of Grand Princess could see the Lord’s dispensation even in the time of suffering. The Grand Prince tragically died. Having lost her earthly husband, Princess Elisabeth decided to serve the Lord and people with full dedication.