THE RUSSIAN ORTHODOX CHURCH

Introduction Traditionally it is believed that the Russian Orthodox Church was founded by St. Andrew, one of the apostles. When he arrived at the location of what is now present day Kiev in Russia he believed it would be the foundation of a great Christian city. Which is where St. Andrews Cathedral is today.

The Birth of the Russian Orthodox Church Christianity is introduced into Kievan Rus by Greek missionaries from Byzantium in the 9th century. In mid-10th century, a Christian community had developed among Kievan nobility, under the leadership of Greek and Byzantine priests Princess Olga Kiev is the first ruler of Kievan Rus to Convert to Christianity Her Grandson Vladimir I, was baptized in 988 and led the Kievans to Christianity. This date is often considered the official birthday of the Russian Orthodox Church.

Under the Mongol Rule While Russia lay under Mongol rule from the thirteenth to fifteenth century (during the time that Genghis Khan had invaded Russia), the Church had been favored and was granted tax immunity in This had caused an increase in Christianity and monasticism. In the 14 th century the Monastery of the Holy Trinity had been founded by St. Sergius of Radonezh Sergius, along with the people of the city, supported the principality in Moscow.

15 th Century At this time the Russian Church had a critical time surviving in Russia due to Tatar oppression. Figures like Sergius of Radonezh and Metropolitan Alexis helped the Church through this, along with helping to expand the church economically and spiritually. After Constantinople falls to the Ottoman Turks, the Church sees Moscow as the Third Rome.

Changes The reigns of Ivan III and his successor were plagued by numerous heresies and controversies Christian life flourished in Russia, focusing on prayer and spiritual growth In the 18th century, the three greatest monasteries in Russia Joseph Volokolamsk Monastery, Kirillo- Belozersky Monastery and Solovetsky Monastery were recognized as lavras Which were large Cities

The Help When tsardom had become weak in Russia the Patriarchs had come into play and would help the tsars run the state during half of the 16 th century

17 th century Poles and swedes invade Russia from the west And patriarchs were imprisoned and starved to death The great schism divides the Church Between Old and new This really Hurts the orthodox church since the church is divided which breaks down its power This goes on for the next two centuries Old New

While the church is divided…. Marxists develop in Russia Also known as atheists who were against the church and its Ideals

The Russian Revolution 1917 the Bolsheviks take power and declare separation of church and state This was the turning point of the church Leading to the persecution of many Russian Orthodox Christians Later on the Soviet Union officially claims religious toleration… …But still continues to try to eliminate any religious influence in society.

Special Thanks! To the internet! (wikipedia)