The Orthodox Mission in Vyatka in the 18th Century: On the Role of the State and Clergy in the Process of Dissemination of the Christian Faith in the Region

Abstract

The article discusses the impact of the Russian state on missionary activity in the Vyatka-Kama region in the eighteenth century. In the middle Ages, the Orthodox mission was carried out mainly by monks. In the eighteenth century, however, the dominant place in the direction and determination of the main ways of missionary activity was occupied by state institutions. Despite the general strengthening of state influence on the development of the Orthodox mission, there was a weak interest of local authorities in the Christianization of the non-Christian population of Vyatka. The first Vyatka bishops who organized the Orthodox mission received practically no support from the civil authorities. In some cases, the civil administration opposed the successful course of the Orthodox mission. Funding from the state came irregularly, which led to the transfer of costs to the Vyatka bishops. The influence of the state was expressed in partial financial support of missionaries, supplying church utensils, and providing various benefits for those who were baptized.