Wednesday, July 14, 2010

Moscow Churches

Even though religion was banned under Soviet rule, its importance has not been lost. There are many historical churches that have undergone extensive renovations, including ones on our family's former estate of Troitse-Lykovskoye just outside of Moscow.

First, we visited two beautiful churches near Putin's house.

Then, we visited Troitse-Lykovskoye.

Through the entrance gates of the property the newer church is visible.

Father Stephan is in charge of everything, from church services and mass, to overseeing reconstruction of churches, to tending the goats, rabbis, geese, and fish on the local farm, and new construction on the property including a "soup kitchen" as well as additional housing and a school. Below, he shows us one of the many fish growing in his ponds near the Mosvka river.

The restoration of the older church is ongoing.

The interior is fantastic! Several new bells were cast.

Here is Father Stephan releasing the fish back into the pond!

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