The Orthodox Brotherhoods’ Activities in the Vologda Diocese in the Late XIX – Early XX Century

Abstract

The article analyses the Orthodox brotherhoods’ activities in the Vologda diocese in the late XIX – early XX century. The author suggests their classification through identifying diocesan, parish brotherhoods and those under theological schools. The brotherhoods’ composition, management body and financial resources are described as well as the four main areas of their activities: religious and educational work, mission, charity, and church life arrangement. When assessing the brotherhoods’activities, the author points out their strong dependence on the state authorities and the lack of freedom. However, it has to be admitted that the brotherhoods contributed to the study of the Old Belief, to the development of the Orthodox culture, education and charity in the diocese.

Keywords

• orthodox brotherhoods
• vologda diocese
• parish brotherhoods
• diocesan brotherhoods
• religious organisations
• missionary work
• church charity
• православные братства
• вологодская епархия
• приходские братства
• епархиальные братства
• религиозные организации
• миссионерская деятельность
• церковная благотворительность