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== NEW MARTYRS OF THE OPTINA PUSTYN =={{cleanup|Needs to be rewritten in an encyclopedic manner.}}''Prepared [[Image:Optina new martyrs5.jpg|right|thumb|New Martyrs of Optina Pustyn.]]In the year 1993 the Orthodox world was shocked by Tatyana Shvetsova'' a tragic event, which had happened in [[Optina Monastery|Optina Hermitage]]: three inhabitants of the [[monastery]] were brutally murdered on Easter night. They were [[Hieromonk]] [[Basil (Roslyakov)]], [[Monk]] [[Therapont (Pushkaryov)]] and Monk [[Trophim (Tatarinov)]]. According to the investigator, the murderer Nikolay Averin inflicted the injuries with unusual professionalism, "deliberately—they were not too deep—to make the victim bleed to death over a long time." The knife was double-edged, five centimeters wide, and resembled a sword. It was engraved on its blade with "666" and "satan."

This program is a narrative about three martyrs [[martyr]]s from the Optina Pustyn monastery, in Central Russia. All three monks were killed by a satanist on Easter night in 1993. We would like to pay homage to the memory of these three remarkable people, hoping their story will serve to strengthen the spirit of many Christians, who sincerely embrace the Faith.

The decree announcing the return of Optina Pustyn to the Russian Orthodox Church was signed on November 17, 1987. That moment marks the beginning of the revival of this holy sanctuary.  ===Hieromonk Vasily Basil (Igor Roslyakov)===

Three months prior to his arrival at the monastery, Igor wrote in his diary: "March 12th, 1988. Morning. Mother finds my small cross. I am 27. I first put this cross on after I had been christened, 27 years ago. An obvious sign from the Lord, reminiscent of Christ's words: "…pick '...pick up your cross and follow me…me...' "

When in 1984, upon embracing the Faith, he started going to [[church ]] regularly, one pilgrim, casting a glance in his direction, said: "A monk is praying." At the time, Igor never even dreamt of monkhood. He could always be seen in one and the same spot at the Epiphany Cathedral, in one of Moscow's central districts. A long time ago, a village by the name of Yelohovo used to be situated here — —the home place of Moscow's great saint — —St.Basil the Blessed. [[Image:83_Hieromonk_Vasily.jpg|thumb|left|Hieromonk Vasily Basil (Roslyakov)]]When inside the church, Igor invariably stood near the [[icon ]] of St.[[Basil the Blessed]]. If you stand in exactly this spot, then you will find yourself facing, in the iconostasis, the large icon of Archangel Michael and above it — —the icon of the Presentation of the Blessed Virgin…  Virgin. Years later, Igor shall take the habit and receive the name of Vasily, or Basil, — in honor of Basil the Blessed.  Later, on the day in memory of [[Archangel Michael]], Basil was [[ordination|ordained ]] at the monastery church, consecrated in honor of the Presentation of the Blessed Virgin…  Virgin. However, back then in 1984, Igor Roslyakov had no way of seeing that far into the future.

On [[June 21st 21]], 1988 , Igor Roslyakov became an inhabitant of the Optina Pustyn, which then lay in ruins. Together with the then far from numerous brethren, he faced the daunting task of rebuilding the holy site.

Upon entering the monastery, Igor Roslyakov presented the Father Superior with his autobiography. "My name is Igor Roslyakov," the autobiography said. "I was born in Moscow on [[December 23]], 1960. Studied at secondary school No. 466 in Volgograd district of the capital. After finishing school, I spent a year working at an automobile factory. In 1980 I entered the department of Journalism of Moscow State University. In 1985 I graduated from the University as a qualified newspaper journalist. As a member of the University's water-polo team I appeared at All-Union and International competitions; got a Master's degree in sports. Was married. Then signed my divorce papers at the Volgograd district Department of Civic Affairs. I have no children. Since 1985 have been working as sports instructor at the Trade Union Sports Society."

"My name The brethren at the monastery knew nothing about this autobiography, since it is Igor Roslyakov,” generally not the autobiography saidcustom to ask about another's past or offer details about yourself. “I It was born in Moscow on December 23rd 1960. Studied at secondary school № 466 in Volgograd district only several years later that somebody brought an old copy of "Izvestiya" newspaper to the capital. After finishing schoolMonastery, I spent sporting a year working at an automobile factory. In 1980 I entered the department faded snapshot of Journalism of Moscow State UniversityIgor Roslyakov holding a Champions' Cup. In 1985 I graduated from That's when they learned that at the University as a qualified newspaper journalist. As a member he'd been Captain of the University’s water-Water polo team I appeared at All-Union , and International competitions; got a Master's degree in sports. Was married. Then signed my divorce papers at the Volgograd district Department of Civic Affairs. I have no children. Since 1985 have been working as later, sports instructor at the Trade Union Sports Society."

The brethren at the Monastery knew nothing about this autobiography, since it is generally not the custom to ask each other about one's past, or offer details about yourself… It was only several years later that somebody brought an old copy of "Izvestiya" newspaper to the Monastery, sporting a faded snapshot of Igor Roslyakov holding a Champions' Cup. That’s when they learned that at the University he'd been Captain of the Water polo team, and later — sports instructor.  The first to suspect that Igor Roslyakov was a former athlete were youngsters from the Vocational College, at the time still housed on the compound of Optina Pustyn. These troublesome students were more than a handful for the monks. No sooner had the latter restored some wall or another, than these fellows would be there, writing rude words on it, with no respect for the work that had gone into it. First, they were reasoned with and patiently admonished, yet to no avail. Then Igor Roslyakov took it upon himself to approach the hooligans. Lifting a couple of the fellows up bodily, and holding then aloft by the scruffsof their necks, he then sent them hurtling through the tall grass. This had a remarkable effect on the students, who lost no time in spreading the rumor that all the monks were one-time athletes. This instilled admiration and respect immediately, and put an effective end to all the trouble and pranks. From then on, peace reigned at the Monastery.

[[Image:83_Future_Hieromonk_Vasily_Roslyakov.jpg |thumb|right|Future Hieromonk Vasily Basil (Roslyakov)]]"I conducted the christening itself, while Igor was holding Irina by the hand, just in case, since the christening was done in a deep holy natural spring. After the third submersion, Igor saw that rays of light were emanating from Irina's eyes." Grace is experienced at every christening ceremony, yet Igor was blessed with a God-given ability to not only sense it, but actually see it.

Grace is experienced He generally possessed a keen sensibility for and perception of grace. This became particularly evident at every christening ceremonyEaster. He felt the spirit of Easter so strongly, there would be tears in his shining eyes. He would be lost in a timeless space. He could stand through two lengthy liturgies in succession, unable to tear himself away from the Easter benevolence and grace, yet Igor pervading the very atmosphere. Easter was blessed with , for him, a God-given ability sacrament, wherein the Spirit hears the call of the world to not only sense it, but actually see itcome. It seemed he was able to hear this call.

He generally possessed a keen sensibility for and perception of GraceHere are some entries from his diary: "[[April 10]], 1988. This became particularly evident at Easter. He felt the spirit of My third Easter so strongly, there would be tears in his shining eyes. He would be lost in .. Time is such a timeless spacemystical entity. He could stand through two lengthy liturgies in successionI ask myself: was there a Lent or not? Was there a service? One day, unable I shall thus have to tear himself away from the Easter benevolence and grace, pervading the very atmosphereask about my life. Easter was, for him, a sacrament, wherein the What exists in reality? The Spirit hears the call . Pure of the world to come. It seemed he was able to hear this callsin, or smeared with it. "

Here are some entries from his diary: "April 10th 1988'Exult now and rejoice, Zion.. Easter. My third Easter… Time ' Yes, rejoice! This is such a mystical entity. I ask myself: was there a Lent or not? Was there a service? One day, I shall thus have to ask about my life. What exists in reality? The Spirit. Pure state of sinthe spirit, or smeared with for itis an inner manifestation, not provisional. "

"Exult now and rejoice Zion…" Yes[[April 30]], rejoice! This 1989. Easter. The Lord's grace is a state of granted gratis, but we should bring the spirit, for it is an inner manifestation, not provisionalLord all we have."

"April 30th 1989. Easter. The Lord's grace is granted gratis, but we should bring the Lord all we have."  He was already Hiermonk Hieromonk Basil, when the believers asked him: "Father, do you have a special, sacred wish?" "Yes,” " he replied, “I "I would like to die at Easter, to the chiming of bells."  His wish was granted in 1993… 1993.

Here are more entries from Father Basil’s Basil's diary:

"Love your neighbor as you love thyself, pray for him, as for thyself, only to see that the sins of your neighbor are YOUR sins, and go down to hell with these sins for the saving of your neighbor.  Lord, You gave me love, changed me completely, and now I cannot do otherwise, but to embrace suffering willingly for the sake of my neighbor. I weep, I lament, but cannot do otherwise, for Your love leads me, and I do not want to part with it, for in it I find hope for Salvation, and despair not, seeing it within myself."

Only great Optina Elders and ascetics of olden times had the audacity to accept sins of others and avert them by prayer. Father Basil did not see himself as an ascetic. It really came down to forced means: Russian monkhood was led to heroic deeds in unexampled conditions, when Monasteries were only just rising from the rubble. His was a period when there was a shortage of clergymen[[clergy]]men, and the young hiermonks hieromonks were suffering undue stress and overwork, resulting in early graying hair.

The father of one monk, who fought the German fascists in the Patriotic war of 1941 — -1945, said of the monks of the end of the 1980’s — 1980s and early 1990’s1990s:

"This is similar to what we had in 1941. Young, totally inexperienced, just off the train and — —straight into battle. You crawl towards a tank clutching a bottle of incendiary, paralyzed with fear, yet knowing full well somebody has to do it."  This is a remarkable comparison: monks of the end of the 20th century and soldiers of the Second World War. True, the monks of the end of the 20th century, just like their fathers of the war years, had to experience hell, to save their neighbors… neighbors.

"A dreadful thing happened to me — —in a moment of desperate weakness I felt a strong urge to commit suicide, to hang myself. There I was, going to work at the Optina Monastery, and crying all the way. Archdeacon Vladimir, upon learning what was the matter with me, said: "'You had better immediately go to see Father Basil!" ' And led me to his cell…  cell. Father Basil had been washing his robsrobes, and was wearing faded patched jeans and a threadbare old mohair sweater. We spoke some fifteen minutes. I recall how Father Basil said to me: "'If you can — —forgive, if you can't — —leave". ' He prayed. And I remember leaving him in extremely good spirits. There I stood outside his cell — —laughing! If someone had told me fifteen minutes before that I would be laughing and rejoicing in life, I would never have believed it possible! Yet, here I was! From that moment on, Father Basil became like a true Father, a blood relative to me. In the 40 years of my life, I have never met another person like him, with such a beautiful soul. I regularly went to confess to him, even decided to plead for permission to become his spiritual child. However, while I was summoning the courage, Father Basil passed away. For a month and a half afterwards I wept with grief, couldn't force myself to go to the Monastery."

He was destined to experience the rank of clergyman but for two and a half years. To begin with only visitors went to confess to the beginning clergyman. And these were few, for as it transpired, his monumental, imposing figure was seen as fearsome by many. Youths called him "the monument" behind his back. Indeed, there was some truth in this simile, for he could stand for hours immobile at the lectern. When accepting people's confessions, he never seated himself, but preferred to stand. During Lent, he could stand his way through some 18 hours a day. He had little to say to those who came to confess, silently listening to what they had to impart. After his death, it was discovered from his diaries that not only did Father Basil hear every word, spoken in the confessional, but pleaded to God for each one of them, with sincere love: “Tis "Tis I, Lord, who sins, forgive ME!.."

A [[nun ]] by the name of Varvara, who used to confess to him, said that Father Basil said not a word, as was his custom, during confession, yet one always left him with an amazing sense of relief, as though one had been absolved from all sin.

One of the pilgrims recalls how he went to confess to Father Basil: "I felt such compassion emanating from Father Basil, it was as though we had one pain and sorrow between the two of us." It is known that later this pilgrim went on to become a monk himself.

“I felt such compassion emanating from Father Basil, it was as though we had one pain and sorrow between the two of us."  It is known that later this pilgrim went on to become a monk himself… ====Martyrdom====Father Basil had a large wooden cross that he'd been given as a gift, featuring an image of the Savior, a cross he preciously guarded. Russian pilgrims had carried this cross when entering Jerusalem, walking along the Calvary to the Lord's Tomb, where they had it sanctified.  It is often recalled how Father Basil would say that the most important thing in life was to carry one's cross to the end, never stumbling on the rise upwards before meeting our Maker.  This is why this cross, that had been carried through Jerusalem, along the Calvary, and sanctified at the Lord's Tomb, had so special a significance for him, occupying pride of place in his small cell… cell.

On [[August 9th 9]], 1993 , holy chrism was seen to appear on this cross, on the left side, under the Savior's ribs. The drops were large and didn't dry for two weeks. It seemed as if the cross was miracle-working!

===Monk Trophim (Alexei Tatarnikov)===Another monk, who died tragically on Easter night in 1993 at the age of 39, Trofim, came to Optina Pustyn in August of 1990. Outside the Monastery monastery walls his name had been Alexei Tatarnikov. He was born on [[February 4th 4]], 1954.

Indeed, the simile was not without grounds: he was blue-eyed and blond, with powerful arms and legs, which carried him with firm, steady tread. His was the strength that could enable him to tie a poker into knots, or, just for the fun of it, twist a thick nail, held nonchalantly between his fingers, into a spiral… spiral.

Trofim had mastered many a trade. After finishing secondary school studies in his native village, he served in the army, after which he spent five years on fishing trawlers in the Russian Far East. As a rule, the fishermen would go off for half a year at a time. While, upon Upon coming ashore, as was the sailors' custom, they'd make a bee line beeline for the restaurant. Trofim was the heart and soul of the company, clever at keeping up his end of the conversation, and when he set his mind to dancing — , nobody could keep still. As a rule, everyone quite forgot about the drinking, returning home sober, yet light-hearted. For this remarkable ability to ignite revelry without undue intoxication, Trofim was heartily invited to diverse sailors' company and weddings. Everyone could be certain of a grand old time, without drunken debauchery. Trofim was a quick hand at carpentry; , a tractor-driver; , baker, and many other trades… trades. This is why other people were constantly approaching him for help and guidance. He, in turn, never turned anyone down. His help was always gratis and sincere.

For Trofim, everything he said was as good as done. If he'd promised something — , you could be sure he'd see it through. He was remarkably hard¬workinghard-working, a quality that was destined to come in quite handy later, when he was at the Monasterymonastery.

Friar Trofim had such a profound love for people, and dispersed it so generously, that each person saw him as his best friend. One of the clergymen who was acquainted with him, said that he had been "brother, friend, helpmeet and relative to each and every one." Incidentally, this last quality at times led him to rebel against monastery rules and instructions. Here is an example. There was only one tractor at the monastery, and a great deal of work set out for it. So there was something of a list of priorities: first, the plots of monastery workers were ploughed, and only afterwards those of other civilians, from the locals, who approached the monastery for help. Thus, when Trofim would be instructed to carry out the ploughing, he'd dutifully set off, yet the noise of his tractor inevitably drew forth an impressive turnout of elderly, feeble women from the villages. Seeing them, tears would well up in Trofim's eyes. Each old woman would beg with him to plough up her bit of land, or do some other chores. Some of these were lonely old souls, others had but sorry excuses for husbands, pitiful drunkards, while their offspring had moved, and couldn't be relied upon to help. How could he turn these poor souls down? He never did. He helped as much as he could, frequently turning up late at the monastery, and receiving punishment for this. The latter he stoically endured, for he was profoundly aware of the importance of monastic obedience.

IncidentallyThe village women, in turn, this last quality at times led him to rebel against Monastery rules and instructions. Here is an example. There was only one tractor at the Monasteryadored Trofim, and he loved them like a great deal of work set out for itson. So there was something of He would receive a list of priorities: first, the plots of Monastery workers were ploughedmoney transfer from home, only to go and only afterwards — those of other civilians, from the locals, who approached the Monastery spend it on scarves for help. Thus, Trofim would be instructed to carry out the ploughing, he'd dutifully set off, yet the noise of his tractor inevitably drew forth an impressive turnout of elderlygrannies, feeble women from the villages. Seeing themsimple white cotton kerchiefs, tears would well up in Trofim's eyes. Each old woman would beg edged with him to plough up her bit of land, or do some other chorescolor. Some of these were lonely The old soulsladies, others had but sorry excuses for husbands — pitiful drunkardsin turn, while their offspring had movedtreasured these "trophies" more than anything else, and couldn't be relied upon all the more so since Trofim would apply them to help. How could he turn these poor souls down? So, he never did. He helped as much as he could, frequently turning up late the sacred [[relics]] at the Monastery, and receiving punishment for this. The latter he stoically endured, for he was profoundly aware of the importance of Monastic obediencemonastery prior to presenting them as gifts.

The Once, Trofim was busy loading wood for the monastery. Upon hearing that in the neighboring village womenan old woman lay ill in a cold cottage, in turnwithout any wood for the stove, adored he immediately made a detour. Trofim, brought her wood and he loved them like stoked up a sonfire. He would receive a money transfer from homewas already on his way back to the monastery when he heard the distant chiming of bells; there were just 15 minutes till Vespers. It was obvious he was going to be late for service, only since there was at least another half-hour's drive to go and spend on scarves for the Monastery. Trofim set his granniestractor straight off the road, simple white cotton kerchiefsand he drove recklessly across the terrain, edged with colornose-diving and stumbling. The old ladies, Sitting in turnthe cabin with Trofim was icon-artist Olga, treasured these "trophies" morewho was quite terrified: not of the breakneck speed or the rugged terrain, than anything else, all but of the more so since look on Trofim would apply them 's face. As a rule he wore an easy smile, but was now quite transformed. The man sitting next to her was sullen and aloof. She was struck by the sacred relics at sudden impression that he wasn't really there, so distant were his thoughts, deep in prayer. A miracle happened and they reached the Monastery, prior to presenting them as giftsmonastery in time for Vespers.

The following incident is recounted. Once, Nobody was loved as much as Trofim was busy loading wood for at the Monasterymonastery. However, upon hearing that in the neighboring village an old woman lay ill in a cold cottageprobably, without any wood for the stove, he immediately made a detournobody was as often reprimanded. Trofim brought her wood, stoked up a fire. He was already on his way back to the Monastery, when This is what he heard the distant chiming of bells — there were just 15 minutes till Vespers… It was obvious he was going had to be late for service, since there was at least another half hour's drive to the Monastery. Then, Trofim set his tractor straight off the road, and off he went, driving recklessly across the terrain, nose-diving and stumbling. Sitting in the cabin say about it: "To begin with Trofim was icon-artist Olga, who was quite terrified: not of the breakneck speed or the rugged terrainthrough my pride, though, but of the look on the face of TrofimI wanted to do everything my way. As a rule always wearing an easy smileHowever, he was now quite suddenly transformed. The man sitting next once you've trained yourself to her was sullen and aloof. She was struck by the sudden impression that he wasn't really therebe obedient, so distant were his thoughts, deep in prayer. A miracle happened and they reached the Monastery in time for Vesperspeace settles on your soul. "

Nobody was loved as much as Translated from Greek, Trofim at the Monasterymeans "disciple. However" He was, indeed, a pupil, a [[disciple]] of Optina Pustyn, probablya beloved child, nobody was as often reprimanded… This endowed with the rare for our proud century gift of being the ideal disciple. He knew how to learn from mistakes. And always dutifully accepted meted out punishment. Here is what he had to say about itone example:

"To begin with, through my pride, I wanted to do everything my way. However, once you:'ve trained yourself to be obedient, peace settles on your soul."  Translated from Greek, Trofim means 'disciple'. He was, indeed, a pupil, a disciple of Optina Pustyn, a beloved child, endowed with the rare for our proud century gift of being the ideal Disciple. He knew how to learn from mistakes. And always dutifully accepted meted out punishment. Here is one example.  They say that when the Monastery turned out its first bread, Trofim was the baker! What day it was: such joy … ... the very first bread baked at their Monastery! Half of Optina Pustyn assembled at the bakery to try it… it... The bread was so delicious and warm, that without the blessing of the Monastery hierarchs, half the batch was eaten there and then. The baker was accordingly punished for this misdemeanor. Trofim had to pray to God with genuflection at length. Yet, Trofim accepted this, as all other penances[[penance]]s, as nothing short of the Lord's blessing, preceding Doomsday. Once, a Bishop, head of the Diocese, was visiting at the Monastery. Upon seeing how readily the monk Trofim was fulfilling penance, he pronounced respectfully: "What a good monk!"

:"When my other brother, Sanya, and I came to Optina Pustyn to visit our brother Trofim, we began by asking him why on earth he'd decided to be a monk?! Trofim told us that not long before his leaving for the Monastery he'd had sign — —a radiance had been emanating from one of the icons, and he heard a voice, that said something to him, two or three times. Alas, at the time Sanya and I didn't have much faith in such miracles, so we didn't remember what it was exactly that had been said by the ‘voice’'voice. ' What could we possibly know at the time if all we were capable of was pleading with our brother to come back home with us. “How 'How can I leave,” ' Trofim said at the time, “if 'if every time I enter the church each one of the icons speaks to me.” ' "

"When I think of Trofim, I immediately conjure up a vision of him driving the tractor back from the fields. Children, dogs — —all rush towards him, eager for a sign of affection from him, while the horses stretch out their necks, for a pat from him… him..."

Children adored Trofim. He knew the behavioral patterns of animals, bird voices, had a way with horses. Prior to entering the Monasterymonastery, he'd had worked for a while at a stud farm, riding the thoroughbred horses. So, he would be flying across the field on horseback while the Monastery monastery folk would stop to watch him admiringly. The vision was just like out of a movie. He sat a horse beautifully! Once, somebody asked him if he were a Cossack. “Of "Of course, I’m I'm a Cossack!”

"Trofim was the quintessential monk — —keeping everything to himself; Outwardly, he didn't manifest any assumed, hypocritical God-fearing attitudes. It always amazed me, how deeply Trofim loved God and people! All people!!! There was no such thing as 'bad' people for him! Anyone could turn to him for help, any time of the day or night!"

:''In the autumn of 1992, the weather was so rainy, that gathering the potato harvest became a nightmare! Rain came pouring down, our boots were full of water… water... Every one returned to the Monastery long after dark, so exhausted, there was no strength to go to church service. One of the hiermonks hieromonks decided to shame the others for not showing up for midnight service:  “What have things come to? The church is empty while each one of you has an excuse: “We have returned so late from the fields!" You should follow the example of monk Trofim — yesterday he was the last out of the field, and the first to arrive for midnight service."

To this I might add that after midnight service, Trofim read all the allotted him prayers, ( that took up quite a lot of time), then lit the fire to hang up the other brothers:' wet clothes and boots for drying for the next day's work. After this, he mended those boots of his brothers', which desperately needed it. To top it off, What have things come to? The church is empty while each one of the lay brothers showed up in the middle of the night with the wordsyou has an excuse: "Imagine, I've misplaced my rosary! Can't find it anywhere… I shall be in trouble if anyone notices its absenceWe have returned so late from the fields!" So, You should follow the example of monk Trofim made him a new rosary that night —yesterday he was the last out of some braid… Trofim didn't get any sleep that time. In the morningfield, he was off and the first to harvest the potatoes again… arrive for midnight service.' "

One To this I might add that after midnight service, Trofim read all the allotted him prayers, taking up quite a lot of time, then lit the fire to hang up the other brothers' wet clothes and boots for drying for the next day's work. After this, he mended those boots of his brothers', which desperately needed it. To top it off, one of the lay brothers showed up in the middle of the Brothers from night with the Monastery recalledwords: "Imagine, I've misplaced my rosary! Can't find it anywhere... I shall be in trouble if anyone notices its absence!" So, Trofim made him a new rosary that night out of some braid. Trofim didn't get any sleep that time. In the morning, he was off to harvest the potatoes again.

"I complained to Trofim that I usually sit so long pouring over a book, that afterwards I oversleep and miss midnight service. "As for me,” he says, “if I sit up too long reading, I never bother to go to bed. I stand on my knees before the bed, and cushion my head on my arms. This way, the arms soon start to tingle, and you certainly won't fall asleep — you'll be sure to spring up with One of the first chime of brothers from the bells…” monastery recalled:

Muscovite Evgenya Protokina noted :''"I complained to Trofim that I usually sit so long pouring over a book, that monk Trofim was always brief in his speechafterwards I oversleep and miss midnight service. 'As for me,' he says, 'if I sit up too long reading, I never bother to go to bed. I stand on my knees before the bed, and cushion my head on my arms. This way, the arms soon start to tingle, yet graphic: one and you certainly won't fall asleep—you'll be sure to spring up with the first chime of her acquaintance suffered from despondencythe bells... Trofim said to him: ' "

Muscovite Evgenya Protokina noted that monk Trofim was always brief in his speech, yet graphic: one of her acquaintance suffered from despondency. Trofim said to him: "Read the Psalm book. Sometimes the sky is overcast, and your spirits are down, yet once you begin reading, a sun ray bursts through, and such joy kindles your spirit! I've experienced it personally! Believe me!"

When, after his death, people started to gather recollections of him, other people's impressions, it transpired he'd never conducted any mundane conversations with anyone. His thoughts were always addressed to God. One man, who'd come out of prison, told Trofim of some of the horrors experienced there. Trofim said:  "Prison is the Monastery of the devil. It's all just like a Monastery, only the other way around — —we are taught humility, while there they cultivate pride."

It is said that there were no pests in the village plots that Trofim had ploughed with his tractor. While , though the neighboring ones — were invaded by them. Village folk would even come to Optina Pustyn to ask monk Trofim what prayer he'd said to ward off the bugs. While he would reply: “I "I read only one prayer: "Oh, 'O Lord, Jesus Christ, have mercy on thy sinner.' "

“This :''"This is the epitome — —to live a life of the spirit! Money and all such (food and rags) — —are nothing but the seeds of the devil, worldly rubbish we've all become obsessed with God preserve you from all that. Try to step on the brakes more often when driving past the church, go and confess your sins. This is the principal thing in life. Have Sasha and the boys gone to church to receive the Eucharist after christening? If not, let them hurry. Every day is worth its weight in gold. The world, as we know, is rushing headlong towards disaster… disaster... May the Lord help you see this clearly. I’ll I'll try to remember you all in my prayers as often as possible. You may let me know the names of all our distant ancestors on mother’s mother's and father’s father's side — —I shall pray for them.  I do not write to anyone simply because I am studying to be a monk. If you take holidays, or have relatives come visiting, nothing will come of it. Experience of others has proved the truth of this. A monk must live in a Monastery, in secrecy. He must seek solitude. Monos — means ‘alone’. A Monastery implies life of solitude and prayer for everyone. This is very difficult…  I wish you all spiritual joy… Pray for one another. Forgive one another. All the rest is but triviality that one can do without. You need to comprehend this fully. Let it sink in. May God help you make the right choices in life. Forgive me. Love. Unworthy monk Trofim." ====Martyrdom====Trofim had been ringing the bells, summoning all for Easter midnight service when the satanist, by the name of Nikolay Averin struck him in the back with a ritual knife… Thus ended the almost three year long monkhood of Trofim…  ===Monk Ferapont (Vladimir Pushkariov)=== Monk Ferapont has become the third victim of the horrendous act by a satanist on Easter night in 1993. He lived to be but 35 years 7 months old. In secular life his name was Vladimir Pushkariov.  Hierdeacon Serafim, who personally knew Monk Ferapont, recalled:

:''"Ferapont lived exclusively for GodI do not write to anyone simply because I am studying to be a monk. If you take holidays, and was so far removed from all earthly caresor have relatives come visiting, even from among the brethren at nothing will come of it. Experience of others has proved the truth of this. A monk must live in a Monastery, in secrecy. He must seek solitude. Monos—means 'alone.' A Monastery there were few who knew himimplies life of solitude and prayer for everyone. This is very difficult."

Indeed, even those, who shared :''"I wish you all spiritual joy... Pray for one another. Forgive one another. All the same cell with him, knew very little about himrest is but triviality that one can do without. You need to comprehend this fully. For example, Let it sink in. May God help you make the bell-ringer Andrei Suslovright choices in life. When after the Forgive me. Love. Unworthy monk's death this man was asked to say something about Father Ferapont, he replied: Trofim."

"What is there to say? He would be praying assiduously ===Martyrdom===Trofim had been ringing the whole time in his cornerbells, behind the curtain. He prayed and he prayed, that's summoning all there is to tell." [[Image:83_Monk_Ferapont.jpg |thumb|left|Monk Ferapont]]When details were required for Easter midnight service when the newspaper obituary, it transpired there were but two papers in Monk Ferapont's personal file: an autobiography, written satanist by the name of Nikolay Averin struck him upon entering in the back with a ritual knife. Thus ended the Monastery, and his death certificatealmost three-year-long monkhood of Trofim. Let's look at his biography:

"I, == Monk Therapont (Vladimir Pushkariov Vladimir Leonidovich, ) ==Monk Therapont was born on September 17, 1955 in the village third victim of Kandaurovo, Kolyvansky district of the Novosibirsk region. I lived and worked in the Krasnoyarsk region. Served in the Soviet Army from 1975 until 1977, and from 1977 'till 1980 — joined service horrendous act by a satanist on re-engagement. Until 1982 I worked as carpenter at the Building office № 97. Then came studies at the forestry technical college — until 1984. After completing studies I worked Easter night in my profession as forestry technician at Lake Baikal, the Buryat Autonomous Socialist republic1993. From 1987 until 1990 I He lived in the town of Rostov-on-the-Donto be but 35 years, 7 months old. I In secular life his name was employed as yard-keeper at the Rostov Cathedral of the Nativity of the Most Holy Virgin. Presently am free of all worldly affairsVladimir Pushkariov.

My mother lives in Hierdeacon Seraphim, who personally knew Monk Therapont, recalled: "Therapont lived exclusively for God, and was so far removed from all earthly cares, even from among the Krasnoyarsk region with her children. My elder sister is married, has two children; brethren at the youngest sister goes to schoolMonastery there were few who knew him."

The biography Indeed, even those, who shared the same cell with him, knew very little about him. For example, the bell-ringer Andrei Suslov. When after the monk's death this man was asked to say something about Father Therapont, he replied: "What is there to say? He would be praying assiduously the whole time in his corner, behind the curtain. He prayed and he prayed, that's all there is to tell." [[Image:83 Monk Ferapont.jpg |thumb|left|Monk Therapont]]When details were required for the newspaper obituary, it transpired there were but two papers in Monk Therapont's personal file: an autobiography, written by him upon entering the Monastery, and his death certificate. His autobiography, dated [[September 13th13]], 1990. , reads as follows:

:''"I, Pushkariov Vladimir Pushkariov Leonidovich, was enrolled born on [[September 17]], 1955 in the brotherhood village of Kandaurovo, Kolyvansky district of the Novosibirsk region. I lived and worked in the Krasnoyarsk region. Served in the Monastery a year after he had Soviet Army from 1975 until 1977, and from 1977 'til 1980—joined itservice on re-engagement. Until 1982 I worked as carpenter at the Building office No. 97. Then came studies at the forestry technical college—until 1984. After completing studies I worked in my profession as forestry technician at Lake Baikal, the Buryat Autonomous Socialist republic. From 1987 until 1990 I lived in the town of Rostov-on March 22nd, 1991-the-Don. This I was employed as yard-keeper at the day Rostov Cathedral of memory the Nativity of Forty from the host Most Holy Virgin. Presently am free of Orthodox martyrsall worldly affairs. That day Father Vasily, one of My mother lives in the new martyrs we have already told you aboutKrasnoyarsk region with her children. My elder sister is married, read has two children; the following sermon during service: youngest sister goes to school."

"The blood Vladimir Pushkariov was enrolled in the brotherhood of martyrs is still being spilt for our sinsthe monastery a year after he had joined it, on [[March 22]], 1991. The demons cannot bear to see This was the blood day of memory of forty Orthodox martyrs. That day, for it gleams brighter than sun and stars, scorching the demons. PresentlyFather Vasily, one of the new martyrs are helping uswe have already told you about, and come Doomsday they shall convict us, for to the consummation of ages there operates read the law of bloodfollowing sermon during service: give blood and accept the Spirit. …Each of our committed sins should be washed away with blood."

Listening eagerly :''"The blood of martyrs is still being spilt for our sins. The demons cannot bear to that sermon had been see the blood of martyrs, for it gleams brighter than sun and stars, scorching the future new martyr Ferapontdemons. Presently, who later was known the martyrs are helping us, and come Doomsday they shall convict us, for to saythe consummation of ages there operates the law of blood: "True, give blood and accept the Spirit. ... Each of our committed sins can should be cleansed only washed away with blood…blood."

Gathering material about Listening eagerly to that sermon had been the life of monk Ferapontfuture new martyr Therapont, those who tackled the task visited his native places in Siberialater was known to say: "True, met our sins can be cleansed only with his relatives, living in a distant, back-of-the-beyond woodland settlementblood... Here is what they gleaned from his sister Natalia: "

"…I recollect howGathering material about the life of monk Therapont, after serving altogether some five years in those who tackled the army task visited his native places in VladivostokSiberia, Volodya then worked met with his relatives, living in a team distant, back-of builders in our own village, besides driving -the workers' bus. He was never prone to drink, didn't smoke, and generally enjoyed respect-beyond woodland settlement. To this day everyone says in our native villageHere is what they gleaned from his sister Natalia: "Why did he join the Monastery? He was a saint anyway!"

Volodya:''s friend Sergey narrated the following incident"... At I recollect how, after serving altogether some five years in the time Volodya was living army in Rostov-on-the-Don and working at the church. WellVladivostok, Sergey suddenly saw him right here Volodya then worked with a team of builders in our own village: apparently this was a vision of Volodya, come to warn Sergey of besides driving the danger threatening his childworkers' bus. Sergey did not heed his warningHe was never prone to drink, alasdidn't smoke, and generally enjoyed respect. To this day everyone says in our native village: 'Why did he join the child Monastery? He was hit by a car and died.saint anyway!' "

It turned out that Vladimir first felt summoned by God when he was working in Volodya's friend Sergey narrated the Buryat Forestry on Lake Baikal. Those gathering details of his biography came across a curious following incident. It's a story, recounted by pilgrims from "At the region of Lake Baikal. If this story is to be believed, Vladimir once had an encounter with an old magician, there time Volodya was living in the taiga woods, who offered him books Rostov-on magic. The old fellow told him to study -the magic books carefully -Don and to come and meet him working at the same spot in a year’s timechurch. Vladimir did not like magiciansWell, and he didn't show up for the meeting. However, he'd Sergey suddenly saw him right here in our village: apparently read the books. Since he didn't treat magic seriously, he made use of what he'd learned to amuse the local village girls. He would send them off to this was a neighboring cottage, instructing them to write notes, which he then proceeded to mind-read. Gifted from birth, yet knowing nothing vision of GodVolodya, Vladimir had no notion of the dangerous forces he was playing games with. [[Image:83_Future_Monk_Ferapont_Pushkarev.jpg|thumb|right|Future Monk Ferapont]]However, the game almost ended in tragedy. According come to his friend warn Sergey, Vladimir experienced his own death. His soul had separated from his body and found itself in the Kingdom of terror. He was dying. Then the Lord's Angel came to him and said he would return him to Earth if he would go to church after thatdanger threatening his child. Immediately after this Vladimir left the forestry office and moved to Rostov-on-the-Don, where he was christened and took on the job of sweeper at the Cathedral there. Why Sergey did he not stay on in heed his native places? Whywarning, simply because one could reach the nearest church only by planealas, flying a distance of hundreds of kilometers. While sects and magicians there were in abundance! Already from Rostov-on-the-Don he wrote to his relatives in Siberia: "Where there is no Church, there is no life", and called on them to come and join him in Rostov. His sister Natalia child was to grieve afterwards, hit by a car and lament this decision of theirs against the movedied."

It also turned out that Vladimir first felt summoned by God when he was working in the Buryat Forestry on Lake Baikal. Those gathering details of his biography came to be known across a curious incident, recounted by pilgrims from the region of Lake Baikal. The story relates that Vladimir once had an encounter with an old magician, there in the army taiga woods, who offered him books on magic. The old fellow told him to study the magic books carefully and to come and meet him at the same spot in a year's time. Vladimir did not like magicians, and he did not show up for five years studied the martial arts of the Orientmeeting. However, discovering later that they were all linked with he had apparently read the occult evilsbooks. One hiermonk recollects howSince he did not treat magic seriously, soon after entering he made use of what he had learned to amuse the Monasterylocal village girls. He would send them off to a neighboring cottage, Vladimirinstructing them to write notes, which he then a layproceeded to mind-brotherread. Gifted from birth, yet knowing nothing of God, said Vladimir had no notion of the dangerous forces he was playing games with bitterness. [[Image: "I was wielding a sword 83 Future Monk Ferapont Pushkarev.jpg|thumb|right|Future Monk Therapont]]The game almost ended in my thoughts again"tragedy. According to his friend Sergey, Vladimir experienced his own death. Monk Makarius Pavlov remembers how once His soul had separated from his body and found itself in the wood-carvers, kingdom of whom Vladimir terror. He was onedying. Then the Lord's angel came to him and said he would return him to earth if he would go to church after that. Immediately after this, were sharing details of how each one of them had come Vladimir left the forestry office and moved to embrace Rostov-on-the Faith-Don, while working where he was christened and took on the job of sweeper at what they were doingthe cathedral there. VladimirWhy did he not stay on in his native places? Simply because one could reach the nearest church only by plane, then already monk Ferapontflying a distance of hundreds of kilometers, listened though sects and magicians there were in abundance! Already from Rostov-on-the-Don he wrote to his brethren relatives in silenceSiberia: "Where there is no Church, there is no life, " and then told called on them how, after he had embraced Orthodoxy, the demons had plagued to come and harassed join him: appearing in Rostov. His sister Natalia was to himgrieve afterwards, attacking and throttling him… Just like in the narratives lament this decision of theirs against the lives of the ancient Christians, described in the Holy books… move.

The Lord loves us It also came to be known that in the army Vladimir studied the martial arts of the Orient for five years, discovering later that they were alllinked with the occult evils. Yet we all respond differently to His love. One hieromonk recollects how, soon after entering the monastery, Vladimir, then a lay-brother, said with bitterness: "I was wielding a sword in my thoughts again," Monk Ferapont responded with allMakarius Pavlov remembers how once the wood-consuming love for God. He gave himself to God without reserve. Immediately upon addressing Godcarvers, he chose for himself the path of asceticismwhom Vladimir was one, rejecting all worldly cares. From now on he lived with God and were sharing details of how each one of them had but one desire — come to be with Himembrace the Faith, while working at what they were doing. Throughout Vladimir, already monk Therapont, listened to his brief monkhoodbrethren in silence, then told them how, after he prayed had embraced Orthodoxy, the demons had plagued and harassed him: appearing to him, attacking and throttling him, just like in the Lord for redemption narratives of sins. The exploit the lives of his life is the exploit of repentanceancient Christians, described in the holy books.

Hiermonk Phillip recallsMonk Therapont responded to the Lord's love with all-consuming love for God in return. He gave himself to God without reserve. Immediately upon addressing God, he chose for himself the path of asceticism, rejecting all worldly cares. From now on he lived with God and had but one desire: to be with God. Throughout his brief monkhood, he prayed to the Lord for redemption of sins. The exploit of his life is the exploit of repentance.

Once, monk Ferapont and I were busy doing building work at the farm yard. To begin with, due to lack of building materials, we weren't making much progress, but towards evening things started to go so well, it seemed like a pity to break off. However, at that point the bell for evening service chimed. Since it was a week day, I suggested to FerapontHieromonk Phillip recalls: "Why don't we get some more done?" While he said to me: "What, you've repented all your sins already?" And straight away set off for church".

Witnesses say :''Once, monk Therapont and I were busy doing building work at the monk Ferapont went farm yard. To begin with, due to lack of building materials, we weren't making much progress, but towards evening things started to go so well, it seemed like a pity to confession dailybreak off. However, at that point the bell for evening service chimed. At times he would even confess twice Since it was a week day, I suggested to Therapont: "Why don't we get some more done?" While he said to me: "What, you've repented all your sins already?" And straight away set off for church. All of his monkhood passed in this tireless work of repentance. "

Pilgrim Alexander Gerasimenko, who Witnesses say the monk Therapont went to confession daily. At times he would even confess twice a day. All of his monkhood passed in this tireless work at Optina Pustyn for long spells, and who was acquainted with monk Ferapont, recalls: of repentance.

At one time I was overly serious and portentous. I rememberPilgrim Alexander Gerasimenko, when who would work at Optina Pustynfor long spells, coming out of the hermitage, I loved to turn to its gates and cross myself self-consciously and then genuflect, hopefully before a group of touristswho was acquainted with monk Therapont, thinkingrecalls: let them marvel at how pious our youth are! Ferapont would sigh upon witnessing my show of piety, and later said to me: "Sasha, why do you pray like a Pharisee? You should pray unseen, so that nobody behold you…"

Monk Ferapont himself had not :''At one time I was overly serious and portentous. I remember, when at Optina Pustyn, coming out of the hermitage, I loved to turn to its gates and cross myself self-consciously and then genuflect, hopefully before a whet group of pretence in himtourists, nor pharisaismthinking: let them marvel at how pious our youth are! Therapont would sigh upon witnessing my show of piety, and later said to me: "Sasha, why do you pray like a Pharisee? You should pray unseen, so that nobody behold you.. His devotion to God was sincere and complete. "

One of the women — pilgrims, by the name of Lidya, said of him: "He was Monk Therapont himself had not a man whit of this worldpretense in him, so pure — like crystalnor pharisaism. He lived by the Bible laws, His devotion to God was sincere and in our day — this is martyrdomcomplete."

Monk Ferapont had notes in his cellOne of the women, where he put down excerpts from the works a pilgrim by the Holy Fathers name of Orthodoxy. He would write out thatLidya, said of which he later said with convictionhim: "This has to be He was not a man of this world, so pure—like crystal. He lived out in deed." The walls of his cell were covered with pages featuring quotations from by the Holy FathersBible laws, and he would often reread them, trying to implement all their commandmentsin our day—this is martyrdom. "

As an exampleMonk Therapont had notes in his cell, here is a quotation where he put down excerpts from the works by the Holy Gregory Fathers of NissoOrthodoxy. He would write out that, of which he later said with conviction: "This has to be lived out in deed." The walls of his cell were covered with pages featuring quotations from the Holy Fathers, and he would often reread them, trying to implement all their commandments.

"Perfection lies in removing oneself As an example, here is a quotation from wanton life not out of fear of punishment, or doing good in anticipation of rewards, thus trading ones' virtuous life and arguing the conditions, but rather in seeing only one terror — that of losing God's friendship, and coveting only one priceless gift — that Holy [[Gregory of becoming God's friend. Therein, I believe, lies the perfection to aspire to in life." Nisso]]:

Another quote:''"Perfection lies in removing oneself from wanton life not out of fear of punishment, copied out by monk Ferapontor doing good in anticipation of rewards, from thus trading ones' virtuous life and arguing the teachings conditions, but rather in seeing only one terror—that of losing God's friendship, and coveting only one priceless gift—that of becoming God's friend. Therein, I believe, lies the Blessed Diadochius: perfection to aspire to in life."

"Rather like the doors of a steam bath which, if often openedAnother quote, let copied out the steam and warmth, thus the spirit, if it is consumed by a desire to speak often, albeit to speak goodmonk Therapont, loses warmth through from the 'door' teachings of the tongue." Blessed Diadochius:

Another quotation from Father Isaac the Syrian: ''"Silence Rather like the doors of a steam bath which, if often opened, let out the steam and warmth, thus the spirit, if it is consumed by a desire to speak often, albeit to speak good, loses warmth through the secret of life 'door' of the future centurytongue."

The world inevitably cultivates a pre-conceived notion of monastic life, and can have an oppressive influence on the Monastery… Take a look at Another quotation from Father [[Isaac the newspaper publications — you are immediately confronted with their groundwork thesisSyrian]]: the monks are useful to society since they take care of the needy and sick, take gifts to foster homes… of course, all this "Silence is a part of the routine at Optina Pustyn. Still, to assess the value secret of monkhood by deeds of charity is akin to assessing the merits life of a microscope for cracking nuts… This is a debate that goes way back when — on the social merits and Christian love. The archives of great Russian writer Fyodor Dostoevsky contain a letter by violinist of the Imperial theatre, who censured Christ for not having turned stones into bread. The violinist wrote with indignation that one should first feed humanity and only then talk of Love and Christ. In a reply letter Fyodor Dostoevsky roughly outlined a picture of sated humankind, without any belief in God, and asked if we would not then be in danger of turning into overfed swine, unable to raise our heads to the heavens? And then prophesied: 'bread shall then be turned to stone'future century. "

As for monk FerapontThe world inevitably cultivates a pre-conceived notion of monastic life, he strove for and can have an oppressive influence on the principal monastic deedmonastery. In newspaper publications one is immediately confronted with their groundwork thesis: prayer for oneself the monks are useful to society since they take care of the needy and sick and take gifts to foster homes. Of course, all this is a part of mankindthe routine at Optina Pustyn. He particularly liked Still, to assess the value of monkhood by deeds of charity is akin to pray in solitude, in one assessing the merits of a microscope for cracking nuts. This is a debate that goes way back when—on the small chambers social merits and Christian love. The archives of great Russian writer [[Fyodor Dostoevsky]] contain a letter by violinist of the churchImperial theatre, where the relics of who censured Christ for not having turned stones into bread. The violinist wrote with indignation that one should first feed humanity and only then talk of the Optina elders were keptLove and Christ. Church service would be overIn a reply letter Fyodor Dostoevsky roughly outlined a picture of sated humankind, without any belief in God, yet monk Ferapont and asked if we would still not then be there in front danger of turning into overfed swine, unable to raise our heads to the relics, prayingheavens? And then prophesied: "bread shall then be turned to stone. "

There was As for monk Therapont, he strove for the principal monastic deed: prayer for oneself and all of mankind. He particularly liked to pray in solitude, in one incident. One of the visitors approached the person on duty in small chambers of the church, and told him he had found himself here quite by accident, that he had always had serious doubts about God's existence. "Now I know, God exists!" he said in great agitation to where the relics of one on dutyof the Optina elders were kept. Church service would be over, “I saw one yet monk praying here. I saw what could only have been the face Therapont would still be there in front of an angel, talking to God! Do you know you have angels here amongst you? “What angels?" the confused person queried. The visitor pointed to monk Ferapontrelics, who was just leaving the churchpraying.

One At one time, one of the Monastery brethren witnessed something similar. Monk Ferapont was praying at visitors approached the relics person on duty in the empty church, convinced nobody could see and told himhe had found himself there quite by accident, that he had always had serious doubts about God's existence. The brother we are speaking of at that moment quietly came out from behind the altar and chanced "Now I know, God exists!" he said in great agitation to throw a glance at the glowingone on duty, angel-like "I saw one monk praying here. I saw what could only have been the face of an angel, talking to God! Do you know you have angels here amongst you?" "What angels?" the confused person queried. The visitor pointed to monk Ferapont. He Therapont, who was so shaken, he hurried awayjust leaving the church.

"Prayer should be One of the principal deed of a monk" wrote Holy Ignatius Bryanchaninovmonastery brethren witnessed something similar. Monk Ferapont had such a thirst for prayer, even Therapont was praying at the relics in the lengthy empty church services , convinced nobody could not alleviate itsee him. His cell mates recollect how he would pray The brother quietly came out from behind the altar and genuflect chanced to throw a glance at night, too. Just as it is so difficult for us sometimes to go and pray, so it was incredibly hard for the monk Ferapont to cease prayer. ====Martrydom====Nowglowing, looking back, we see that angel-like face of monk Ferapont saw the approach of his own deathTherapont. Not long before he diedHe was so shaken, he started to give hurried away his warm clothes with the words: "I shall not be needing this any more." Right on the eve of Easter, he distributed his carpentry tools among the brethren…

On "Prayer should be the eve principal deed of Easter a monk Ferapont was in ," wrote Holy [[Ignatius (Brianchaninov)]]. Monk Therapont had such a state of radiant joythirst for prayer, obviously having received from even the Lord the gift of enlightenment lengthy church services could not alleviate it. His cell-mates recollect how he would pray and foresightgenuflect at night, too. In any caseJust as it is so difficult for us sometimes to go and pray, some of so it was incredibly hard for the monks testified that he could read their minds, while one young lay-brother admitted Ferapont had told him his futuremonk Therapont to cease prayer.

On Easter night===Martrydom===Now, before the murderlooking back, one can see that monk Ferapont was standing in church, not in his usual place, but near the table, where services for Therapont saw the repose approach of the souls are usually conductedhis own death. He stood, as if immobile, head bowed in prayer and sorrow. There were a great many people in the church. He was being shoved and crowdedNot long before he died, yet he seemed started to notice nothinggive away his warm clothes with the words: "I shall not be needing this any more. Then, he set off for " Right on the last confession eve of his life… A satanist struck him with a ritual knife, when, together with monk TrofimEaster, he was chiming distributed his carpentry tools among the bells… ________________________brethren.

==SourcesSource==* Tatyana Shvetsova. '''[http://www.ruvr.ru/main.php?lng=eng&q=9588&cid=115&p=05.04.2007 NEW MARTYRS OF THE OPTINA PUSTYNNew Martyrs of the Optina Pustyn]''', Voice of Russia, 05-04-2007.

==External Links==[[Category:Martyrs]]* '''[http[Category://www.ruvr.ru/main.php?lng=eng&rt=115&p= THE CHRISTIAN MESSAGE FROM MOSCOWMonastics]]''', ''The Voice of Russia''.* '''[http[Category://www.ruvr.ru/main.php?lng=eng&rt=165&p= SPIRITUAL FLOWERBEDContributed Articles]]''', ''The Voice of Russia''.