Religion, Moscow

This is not the inside of the church, but in a separate area where they perform the baptisms. Normally, you should not take pictures in the church. However, it is up to the priest. In this case, he allowed pictures during the baptism. As a matter of fact, it was a like a press scrum in the room as parents and on-lookers tried to get the best view of their nieces and nephews. Never the less, proper decorum dictates that you respect the altar and ask for permission before you start snapping pictures or taking videos. Women should wear a headscarf or something to cover their heads while in the church.

I was lucky enough to go to the baptism of my godson in this church last Saturday. It was a beautiful, Fall day, and the weather was perfect for picture taking. I am not a member of the Russian Orthodox Church, so it was a rare chance for me to see their services and take part in one. It was a really special experience.

I have more photos than commentary, so please excuse my lack of comments. Thanks.

Before the Saint Savior Orthodox Church was rebuilt after the fall of communism, Elokhovskaya Church was one of the main, if not the most important Orthodox churches in Moscow. It is located near Baumanskaya Metro not too far from Yarisloval Vokshall (trainstation). It is a very beautiful church, and the inside is quite ornate.

Moscow is multiconfessional city. You can find not only hundreds of Russian ortodox churches, but a lot of other christian churches as well mosques and synagogues.

On the picture - Moscow Chorale Synagogue near m. Kitai Gorod, B. Spasoglenischevsky per.

It was quite new to me, that in the Russian Orthodox Church there are no benches! The congregation is standing during the whole service! Just a very few seats are reserved for the elderly who are physically not capable of doing this.

One thing you can fell in love with is a special Orthodox Church music. I personally sang in a choir specialised in this kind of music, and I have some friends who still do. Visiting a church in any Russian city, especially Moscow with its so many churches, try not only look at the beauty of interior, but also listen to music that can be heard during the service.

Whether you wear a headscarf or a cap, it is a sign of respect for women to cover their heads in the church.

This church is located near the Baumanskaya Metro station and not far from Yaroslaval Vokshall or trainstation. I will locate it more precisely and then post more comments later. Thanks.

This picture was taken on 12 of June 2003(Independence Day). Procession is carrying the relics of St. Andrew around center of Moscow.