IIE Students Explore Russia’s Spiritual Traditions

To mark the Day of Slavic Literacy and Culture, students from Afghanistan, Iraq, Cuba, and Turkmenistan at the Institute of International Education took part in a series of educational excursions to prominent Orthodox churches in Moscow. These events offered international students an opportunity to discover not only Russia’s architectural landmarks but also its spiritual traditions and cultural heritage.

The group visited the Church of the Icon of the Mother of God “Burning Bush” in Moscow’s Otradnoye district, which for many was their first introduction to Russian Orthodoxy. The highlight of the visit was a meeting with Father Dionysius, the church’s superior and a well-known missionary. The students learned about the features of Orthodox worship, the symbolism of major Christian holidays, and the differences between Western and Eastern Christian traditions. The tour of the bell tower left a special impression, as everyone had a chance to try ringing the bells themselves. “I never thought that bell ringing could be so difficult and beautiful at the same time,” shared a student from Iraq.

On the Day of Slavic Literacy, the students also toured the Church of the Archangel Michael at the clinics on Devichye Pole, part of the Central Deanery. They were impressed by the church’s architecture and history. The tour provided detailed information about the lives and doings of Saints Cyril and Methodius, the creation of the Slavic alphabet, and the role of Orthodoxy in shaping Russian culture. Students also viewed unique icons and frescoes. “I was particularly moved by the story of how the Slavic script was created,” said a student from Turkmenistan. “We even tried writing Cyrillic letters using old patterns.”

Events like these, organized by the Department of Russian as a Foreign Language of the Institute of International Education, help to foster intercultural dialogue, understanding, and respect among people of different backgrounds and faiths.