Metropolitan Nikodim (Rotov) and His Participation in the Parish Life of Cemetery Churches of the Leningrad Diocese

Abstract

Multifaceted episcopal ministry covers different aspects of church life. One of the important duties of the episcopal ministry is pastoral counseling, which is mainly associated with concern for the preservation of the Christian faith, Christian morality and piety in the diocese. The ruling bishops must certainly take interest in the state of affairs in the pari¬shes of the diocese entrusted to them and undertake some action if certain difficulties and problems arise. 2023 marks the 45th anniversary of the repose of Metropolitan Nikodim (Rotov). Since the Holy Apostle Paul commanded to “remember those who led you” (Heb. 13:7), the author analyzes the above-mentioned side of Metropolitan Nikodim’s episcopal ministry in the Leningrad diocese, which took place from 1963 to 1978. Based on archival documents from several churches of the northern capital, the article describes communication of Metropolitan Nikodim with the parish churches. The documents cited clearly demonstrate how Bishop Nikodim established contacts with the parishes, in different forms. In addition to the direct responsibilities of a bishop, such as assigning clergy to a particular church, blessings or refusals of some parish requests, Metropolitan Nikodim had to solve many problems that arose among the clergy and laity of the diocese. Analyzing a number of Metropolitan’s resolutions, which are partly presented in this work, the author concludes that, despite various church obediences, Metropolitan Nikodim devoted considerable time and effort to interacting with the parishes of Leningrad and in each specific case, solving a particular problem or request, and provided valuable advice. Thus, the presented side of the episcopal ministry of Metropolitan Nikodim not only adds a bright touch to his portrait, but even more points to the versatility of the service he performed until the last days of his earthly life.

Keywords

• leningrad
• history of the 20th century
• metropolitan nikodim (rotov)
• leningrad churches
• cemetery churches