Vol. 51, Nos. 1–2 (300–301) January–April, 2015

The Land of St. Vladimir: An Historical Overview of Orthodoxy in Ukraine

by Nun Cornelia (Rees)

This issue of The Orthodox Word is dedicated to Orthodox Christianity in Ukraine. In response to the sorrowful and confusing events that have taken place in Ukraine over the last few years, The Land of St. Vladimir attempts to provide a history of Orthodox Christianity in this region to give the reader a clearer understanding of the numerous complex circumstances that have shaped it. Beginning just prior to the baptism of Rus ’, Nun Cornelia chronicles the events that unfolded over the centuries: attacks, occupations, religious persecutions, and, through the midst of it all, innumerable manifestations of sanctity, perseverance, spiritual solidarity, and courage.

Mother Cornelia's article is preceded by the life of St. Jonah Atamansky, Wonderworker of Odessa. Translated from Russian sources, this article recounts the life and labors of a great New Confessor of the Ukrainian land. Akin to St. John of Kronstadt, with whom he was in contact, St. Jonah was a man of profound faith and prayer, a rigorous ascetic, and a tireless worker for the disadvantaged.