A movement that believes Vladimir Putin is the reincarnation of Paul the Apostle, preparing Russia for the second coming of Christ
Religion: Christianity
Denomination: Russian Orthodox
Founded: 1990
Location: Moscow, Russia
Other Names: Chapel of the Resurrection of Russia, Chapel of the Resurrection of Christ in Butovo
Founded in 2007 by a woman known as Mother Fotina, the Chapel of Russia’s Resurrection is a Russian sect that uniquely intertwines religious devotion with contemporary political figures. This group holds the unconventional belief that Vladimir Putin, Russia’s President and former Prime Minister, is the reincarnation of Paul the Apostle, tasked with preparing Russia for the Second Coming of Christ. Putin is also seen by this sect as a reincarnation of Vladimir the Great, marking him as the first Russian leader to be worshipped as a living saint while still in office.
The sect, comprising entirely of women who dress as nuns for their services, operates from a three-story brick building referred to as the Chapel of Russia’s Resurrection. They exhibit their veneration through a mixture of religious and patriotic expressions, including prayers for Putin and singing traditional Russian Orthodox figures alongside a picture of Putin, which they claim appeared miraculously.
Their practices have attracted attention and varied reactions. The Russian government, while aware of the sect, has noted through Putin’s press agent that while the adulation is impressive, it skirts dangerously close to violating the commandment against worshipping false idols. Moreover, the emergence of the sect contributes to the broader personality cult surrounding Putin, encompassing songs and social activities that glorify his leadership.
Criticism has also come from the religious community, such as Father Alexei, a local Russian Orthodox priest, denouncing the sect as an amalgamation of several religious beliefs and political information. Neighbors and local observers have also suggested that the sect’s founding could also serve as a means to prevent government scrutiny of its members and activities.
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