Why did the orthodox religion start?

Answer 1

AnswerAround 987, the pagan Prince Vladimir of Kiev sent envoys to neighbouring lands to find out about other religions. Some say that he rejected Islam because of its ban on alcohol, Judaism because its loss of Jerusalem demonstrated loss of divine support, and finally Catholicism because the Eastern Orthodox churches were more beautiful. Some historians say that Vladimir's real motive was to ally his land with its most powerful neighbours through religion, a decision which led to his adoption of Orthodox Christianity.

In any event, Prince Vladimir was baptised into Orthodox Christianity and required the same of all his subjects.

Answer 2

According to an old legend, several ambassadors were sent to pagan Russia to convince them to one of several religions: there were Roman (Catholic Church), Byzantine (Orthodox Constantinopol Chruch) and Jewish ambassadors. Russians have listened each and then selected Orthodox faith. In terms of real history, political and trading ties between Slavs and Byzantine Empire were the closest and conflict of interests was the least (mainly, comparing to Romans), that is why Orthodox Christianity was accepted.

Answer 3

they were the first christians. but they were just called christians. in 1054 AD the wes broke off and the rest of the 4 patriarchs formed the orthodox church