Russian Orthodoxy

Tuesday, June 29

Our topic yesterday was Russian Orthodoxy. We were given a broad overview of Orthodoxy in Russian's history and it's influence on people today. It was interesting to note that in the 2000 census, almost all people interviewed considered themselves Russian Orthodox, but only 3-6% said they were practicing members.

Following our lecture, the presenter took us to three cathedrals in Krasnodar. We viewed St. Catherine's Cathedral, Holy Trinity Cathedral, and St. Elijah's Cathedral. To the right is a picture taken inside of Holy Trinity Cathedral. It is a picture of the iconostasis found in the cathedral. It was beautiful!

We were also allowed to climb to the top of the bell tower. The priest of the church, Father Daniel, took us up to the bell tower. The view of Krasnodar was amazing. We could see the Kuban River and most of the city. It was a little scary walking up the winding staircases to get to the bell tower but well worth it!!!

After viewing St. Catherine's and Holy Trinity Cathedrals, we arrived at St. Elijah's. To my surprise, we were taken up to the choir loft and given a short 'recital' of songs sang during a traditional Russian Orthodox service. Five members of St. Elijah choir were present and sang parts of eight songs. It was amazing. St. Elijah is a small church and the sound that the five singers made was breathtaking. I got chills!!! It is Russian Orthodox tradition to not use any instruments in the church, but only the voice. To the right is a picture of the five singers.