Russian Orthodoxy

In Russian Orthodox Christianity, Mary Magdalene is revered as a significant figure, often recognized as the first witness to the resurrection of Jesus Christ. She is honored for her role as a devoted follower of Christ, who, according to the New Testament, was present at His crucifixion and the empty tomb. The Orthodox Church celebrates her feast day, emphasizing her importance in the life of the Church and her example of repentance and faith. Mary Magdalene is also seen as a symbol of hope and renewal in the Christian faith.

The Russian Orthodox Church imposes several restrictions, including limitations on religious practices outside its doctrine, which can lead to the suppression of non-Orthodox faiths. Additionally, it often collaborates with the state, resulting in constraints on the church's autonomy and promoting nationalism over universal Christian values. The church also faces internal restrictions, such as adherence to traditional teachings and opposition to modern interpretations of theology, which can hinder progressive movements within its ranks.

The fortress in Moscow known for its iconic onion-domed churches is the Kremlin. This historic fortified complex features several notable churches, including the Cathedral of the Assumption and the Cathedral of the Archangel. The Kremlin serves as the political and historical heart of Russia, showcasing stunning architecture that reflects the country’s rich heritage. Its distinctive onion domes have become a symbol of Russian architecture.

In Russia, the Orthodox Church has significantly influenced both cultural and political life. It has shaped national identity and values, fostering a sense of unity among the population. The Church has also played a crucial role in politics, often aligning itself with the state to reinforce authority and promote traditional beliefs. Additionally, its teachings have impacted art, literature, and social norms throughout Russian history.

Boris Pasternak was born into a Jewish family but later identified more broadly with Russian culture and literature. He was not an active participant in religious practices and his work often reflects a complex relationship with spirituality. While he was influenced by Orthodox Christianity and incorporated its themes into his writing, he did not strictly adhere to its beliefs or practices. Thus, he cannot be classified simply as an Orthodox Christian.

As of recent estimates, approximately 1 to 3 million Americans identify as Russian Orthodox. The Russian Orthodox Church, especially through its North American diocese, has a presence that primarily serves immigrants from Russia and their descendants. The number can vary due to factors like religious affiliation changes and the growth of other Orthodox communities in the U.S.

Saint Xenia of Saint Petersburg is recognized as the patron saint of the homeless, mad, and those in need of assistance. She is revered for her deep compassion and dedication to helping others, often associated with providing comfort and support to those facing hardships. Her life of humility and service has made her a beloved figure among the faithful, particularly in Russia, where she is invoked for protection and guidance.

The majority of Russian Orthodox Christians are ethnic Russians, but the Russian Orthodox Church also serves various ethnic groups within Russia, including Ukrainians, Belarusians, and various indigenous peoples. The faith is deeply intertwined with Russian culture and history, influencing art, literature, and national identity. Many Russians participate in religious practices such as attending church services, celebrating religious holidays, and observing rituals, even if they may not be deeply devout. The Russian Orthodox Church plays a significant role in contemporary Russian society, often intersecting with national and political issues.

The Russian Orthodox Church historically wielded significant influence over Russian society, politics, and culture, often intertwining its authority with the state. This strong relationship enabled it to shape national identity and morality, but it also led to tensions, particularly during periods of reform and modernization. Critics argue that its power sometimes obstructed progress and contributed to social inequality, while supporters view it as a stabilizing force in Russian history. Ultimately, the church's strength reflects both its deep roots in Russian heritage and the complexities of its role in contemporary society.

During Joseph Stalin's time in power, particularly in the 1930s and 1940s, the Soviet government implemented a campaign of repression against religious institutions, including churches. Many churches were closed, destroyed, or repurposed, and religious leaders were persecuted, imprisoned, or executed. The state promoted atheism and sought to diminish the influence of religion in society, viewing it as a rival to communist ideology. By the end of Stalin's rule, the Russian Orthodox Church, while still heavily controlled, was allowed a limited revival as part of a strategy to gain popular support.

In the Russian Orthodox tradition, traditional healers often include folk healers known as "znakhars" or "folk doctors," who utilize herbal remedies, rituals, and spiritual practices for healing. These healers may incorporate elements of Orthodox Christian faith, such as prayer and the invocation of saints, into their practices. While the Church officially recognizes the importance of faith in healing, it often views folk healing with caution, emphasizing the need for medical treatment alongside spiritual support.

The onion-domed Russian Orthodox churches in Alaska are primarily located in coastal communities, especially in the Aleutian Islands and along the southern coast. Notable examples include the St. Michael's Cathedral in Sitka, the Holy Ascension Church in Unalaska, and various smaller churches in places like Kodiak and Kenai. These churches reflect Alaska's rich Russian heritage and the history of Orthodox Christianity in the region.

The relationship between the Russian Orthodox Church and the Princess of Kiev, specifically Princess Olga, is historically significant. Olga, who ruled in the 10th century, is credited with introducing Christianity to Kievan Rus', laying the groundwork for the eventual Christianization of the region. Her grandson, Vladimir the Great, later adopted Christianity as the state religion, further solidifying the connection between the Russian Orthodox Church and Kievan leadership. Olga is venerated as a saint in the Orthodox Church, symbolizing the deep ties between the church and the early rulers of Kievan Rus'.

"Ortho" means straight or correct. It is often used in the context of orthopedics (the branch of medicine dealing with the correction of deformities of bones or muscles) and orthodontics (the branch of dentistry that deals with the alignment of misaligned teeth).

It provided spiritual guidance to the Russian people and it opposed the Atheist government of the Communist regime.

It also continued to provide some limited Church services during the 70 years of Communist persecution, even though most of the Churches had been destroyed by the Communists in Russia.

The Communists (in particular the Bolsheviks) persecuted the Russian Orthodox Church by making it illegal to belong to the Church, by imprisoning and killing the priests, bishops, monks and nuns, and by destroying many of the church buildings and monasteries, and confiscating church property.

Around 70-75 Million people are Russian Orthodox.

Completion of high school or university are important moments that mark the passage into adulthood. Entrance into military service was also revered in the same way. Weddings are usually followed by a trip in a special black limousine (marked with two large interlinked rings on the top) to pay respect and leave flowers at a local memorial.

Princess Olga of Kiev was the first Russian leader to convert to Christianity. She was baptized in Constantinople into the Orthodox Church and is considered an equal to the Apostles.

No, it is considered a sub-group. "Eastern Orthodox" is a broad term used to edscribe the group of chruches that split with the Roman Catholics in the 11th century

In 2012, Easter Orthodox (Russian, Greek, Serbian, Bulgarian +++ Easter is celebrated on April 15. one week later than Western (Protestant & Roman Catholic) Easter. Every few years the date line-up, due to a different calender:

In the West - Gregorian / In the East - Justinian.

Saint Petersburg (original name restored from the communist-era Leningrad)

An Orthodox Church is a Church that is not under the authority of the Pope, but, still has Apostolic Succession. Like the Catholic Church, they trace their origins to the very beginnings of Christianity.

The Russian Orthodox church was brought to Russia in medieval days from Constantinople ( which is Istanbul today) when it was the centre of the Orthodox Byzantine church. Russian lettering can still be found in the Hagia Sophia which was a cathedral there but is now a mosque. These early Russian traders and soldiers were very impressed by what they found there and brought their new christian faith back up the trading routes to the north. The whole state of Russia eventually became Orthodox.

The Russian Orthodox church in exile came into being to care for the faithful who found themselves outside of their Russian homeland following the revolution. St.Tikhon and and others in the Church condemned the Bolshevik state authorities and thousands of Orthodox were imprisoned. Many fled to other countries, France in particular had an active Russian church and others were founded around the world in Britain and the US. The Russian Orthodox cared especially for Russians forced to flee persecution who were outside of Russia. Amanda

Actually, Russian Orthodoxy has been part of Russia for much longer than that. Czar Nicholas II and his grandparents were all Orthodox. Once the revolution got going it went underground. Russian Orthodoxy has been around for hundreds of years.

Parish of the Mother's of God Protection c / Aragó, 181, 08011 Barcelona, Spain AND Paroquia Ortodoxa de San Andrés y San Nicolás Virgen del Socorro, 59, 03001 Alicante, Spain Hipodiácono Nicolás, Telephone: 676 929 455, parroquiaortodoxaalicante@msn.com