Recognizing the Revival of Faith in Ukraine: A Journey Through Tradition and Resilience

In recent times, the mere mention of "Ukraine" evokes a wave of emotions, often marred by the heaviness of political negativity. This turmoil is a stark contrast to the yearning for a time of “multiplication of love and eradication of all malice.” The rich Orthodox traditions of the Ukrainian people, not merely spoken of but lived through personal memories and preserved in archival records, serve as a beacon of hope and unity within the Russian Orthodox Church, which has faced external pressures throughout history.

While I have never set foot in Ukraine and do not possess Ukrainian roots, my connection to this topic, though perhaps less visceral than that of many, drives me to share associations that have emerged from my exploration of the State Archive of the Russian Federation. In particular, I delve into the ecclesiastical life and the state of religious sentiment in the Ukrainian SSR during the post-war year of 1946.

The Cyclical Nature of History

Living through the years, one becomes increasingly aware of history's cyclical nature. When discussions of revival arise, it becomes clear that what is truly reviving is that which has existed for centuries but has faded into the background of historical narratives. This phenomenon applies equally to the persecutions, especially the plight of the canonical Ukrainian Orthodox Church, which was officially declared illegal by the Ukrainian Parliament's Law No. 8371 on August 20, 2024. This historical persecution has deep roots, fascinatingly reflected in archival materials.

Returning to the theme of revival, my encounters with the characteristics of church renewal in the post-war years and personal observations during the transformative 1990s instill hope. The cyclical nature of faith suggests that the Orthodox religious sentiment within the Ukrainian populace will, once again, overcome the trials imposed by history.

A Living Memory: The Streets of Voroshilovgrad

As I walk along the streets, vivid imagery from a report by the representative of the Council for the Affairs of the Russian Orthodox Church in the Voroshilovgrad region in 1946 comes to life. On June 13, the report details a gathering of around 30 individuals, predominantly children aged 12 to 17, escorting a bishop from the cathedral to his residence. This procession drew the attention of bystanders, occurring in the heart of a city known for its Soviet backdrop. The scene was nothing short of astonishing in the Soviet context—a moment reminiscent of Christ walking through a community surrounded by His disciples. Witnesses were left awestruck; some were startled, while others expressed loud indignation. Yet, the overwhelming sentiment remained: the Church was alive!

I experienced a similar awakening in 1993 when I visited the modest yet vibrant community of Diveevo, which seemed to burst forth with a resurgence of faith. Clergy and laypeople filled the streets, creating a living tableau of Holy Russia. A particular family left a lasting impression on me: a group of long-haired girls in flowing skirts, their mother, similarly adorned, cradling an infant, and a tall, stately father, as if stepping straight from a Russian fairy tale. This familial representation embodied a mission, showcasing the vibrant spiritual life that persisted even in adversity.

During my stay in Diveevo, I connected with numerous believers from Ukraine. Their warmth and infectious joy were palpable, distinguished by their southern charm and fervent faith. Their devotion radiated love for Christ, which was strikingly different from the reserved nature often found in the northern regions. My memories include two Ukrainian mothers and an orphan girl who had relocated to Nizhny Novgorod. Later, I learned that many of the first residents of the revived Serafimo-Diveevo Monastery were also from Ukraine.

The Power of Faith: An Undeniable Force

Reading about the church revival in the Ukrainian SSR in 1946, I am transported back to those vivid scenes described in Soviet reports, where the images of devout Ukrainians emerge as a timeless archetype, persistent throughout history.

The reports reveal an astounding fact: a significant portion of the population sought the services of the Church, which had deep roots in the fabric of society. Representatives noted the boldness of the parishioners and their engagement with church life, underscoring a faith that resonated deeply within the community. In 1946, active participation in religious services was notable among the youth, who responded eagerly to pastoral calls for deeper engagement.

One particularly bold instance from the region of Slavyansk illustrates this fervor. In the midst of a drought in 1946, devout believers across the Soviet Union sought divine intervention through prayer services, with the Slavyansk community taking the audacious step of petitioning Nikita Khrushchev, then Chairman of the Council of Ministers of the Ukrainian SSR, for permission to pray in the fields for rain. This reflects a faith-driven determination that transcended the restrictions imposed by the Soviet state.

The Resilient Spirit of Ukrainian Orthodoxy

The prevailing image of the Ukrainian Church during this era is one of fearless and open worship, a natural expression of belief that was neither hidden nor shameful. Reports from various regions, including Zaporizhzhia and Chernihiv, highlight a vibrant engagement of the youth and the broader population with their faith.

In the western regions, where historical divisions had arisen from the influence of the Greek-Catholic Church, the 1946 decisions to dissolve this union marked a significant moment. The response from the faithful was overwhelmingly positive, with many expressing gratitude to the leaders of the Soviet government. For Ukrainians, the intertwining of love for their homeland and their Orthodox faith became increasingly evident, suggesting a deep-rooted identity that continues to resonate today.

Conclusion: A Legacy of Faith

The narrative of revival and resilience within the Ukrainian Orthodox Church is a testament to the enduring spirit of its people. As they navigate the complexities of modernity and political strife, the echoes of their rich spiritual heritage remain a source of strength and hope. The Church’s revival is not merely a historical footnote but a living, breathing testament to a faith that has withstood the test of time, promising that the light of Orthodoxy will continue to shine brightly in Ukraine's future.