Topic: Russian Orthodox Church

Faith tourist: From Easter at the Vatican to a South Pacific church

My fascination with religious observances is ecumenical. I have recited my 'Allahu Akbars,' been blessed at Easter by the pope in St. Peter's Square, and recently attended a service in the South Pacific. Everywhere, I find a universal need for contemplation and self-surrender.

How Russians survived militant atheism to embrace God

Today, less than 20 years after the collapse of the officially atheistic Soviet Union, Russia has emerged as the most God-believing nation in Europe. That's a testament to the devotion of babushkas who kept the flames of faith alive in the face of state-sponsored repression.

Russia emerges as Europe's most God-believing nation

Nearly 20 years after the collapse of the atheistic Soviet Union, a recent poll found that 82 percent of Russians classify themselves as religious believers. But far fewer subscribe to organized religion.

"Molotov's Magic Lantern: Travels in Russian History": an interview with author Rachel Polonsky

Journalist Rachel Polonsky explores some of the troubled fault lines in modern Russian history.

In ruling on artistic expression, some Russians see signs of broader crackdown

A Moscow court's ruling that curbs artistic expression, as well as fresh legislation to strengthen the KGB's successor and limit rights of public assembly, appear to some Russians to presage a broader crackdown.

Ukraine: A gift without a price?

Collecting antiques can equal cultural survival

Wealthy Russians and Chinese buy antiques to recover pieces of their heritage.

World

What was this holiday in November?

A Russian immigrant learns what American Thanksgiving is all about.

Russian monastery anticipates the familiar toll of ancient bells

After 78 years, a set of 18 iconic bells rescued from a Moscow monastery will return home.

Meet Dmitri Medvedev

Russia's new president loves Deep Purple, shuns alcohol.

A tiny native village in Alaska copes with urban encroachment

Members of the Dena'ina Athabascan tribe, completely surrounded by metropolitan Anchorage, struggle to preserve their language and culture.