The Christ the Savior Cathedral in Moscow was packed with worshippers, including President Vladimir Putin, for the nighttime Easter service led by Patriarch Kirill of the Russian Orthodox Church. The service began with Kirill delivering well-wishes to Orthodox believers, which were broadcast on Russian TV. A procession of clergy circled the cathedral, swinging incense censers and chanting the liturgy. The cathedral is seen as symbolic of Russia’s rejection of its atheist past, having been rebuilt in post-Soviet times. The Russian Orthodox Church follows a different calendar for Easter, with Kirill wishing for “God’s blessing over Russia” and all countries where the church has a presence.
In a written message published on the church’s website, Kirill emphasized the importance of awareness of God’s love in overcoming difficult circumstances and mental states. This year, the patriarch seemed to avoid political pronouncements, unlike the previous year when he referenced Moscow’s military actions in Ukraine. The service, with a mixed-voice choir and standing worshippers holding red candles, was set to extend into Sunday. Putin was seen among the worshippers, exchanging festive gifts with Kirill. Earlier in the day, Orthodox Russians had their baskets of festive foods blessed by a priest.
Putin has positioned himself as a defender of “traditional values” upheld by the Russian Orthodox Church against what he perceives as the West’s “degrading” influence. The country has taken a conservative turn, with restrictions on abortion and broad bans on LGBTQ+ activism and gender transitioning, supported by the church. Putin and Kirill participated in traditional Easter greetings during the service, showcasing their close relationship. The service at the Christ the Savior Cathedral is a significant event in Moscow, drawing top political and religious figures.
The service at the Christ the Savior Cathedral is a key moment for both the Russian Orthodox Church and the Kremlin, as it symbolizes the close ties between church and state in Russia. Putin’s presence at the service underscores his support for the church and its influence in Russian society. The Easter service also serves as a platform for Kirill to deliver messages to the Russian people and the world, emphasizing themes of faith, love, and national unity. The traditional rituals and ceremonies at the cathedral are a reflection of centuries-old Orthodox traditions that continue to hold significance in modern Russia.
The Easter service at the Christ the Savior Cathedral highlights the strong bond between the Russian Orthodox Church, President Putin, and the Russian people. The ceremony serves as a reminder of the church’s role in shaping Russian identity and culture, as well as its close relationship with the country’s political leadership. Putin’s attendance at the service reinforces his image as a protector of traditional values and a supporter of the church’s influence in Russian society. The Easter celebrations in Moscow demonstrate the enduring significance of religious traditions and ceremonies in Russian culture, as well as the church’s enduring influence in shaping the country’s moral and social values.
