A growing number of young men in the United States are joining the Russian Orthodox Church, drawn by its traditional values and masculine ideology. The church’s emphasis on family, community, and authority is resonating with a generation disillusioned with modern America’s perceived feminization.
In recent years, the Russian Orthodox Church Outside Russia (ROCOR) has seen a surge in new converts, mostly men, who are seeking a more traditional way of life. They are attracted to the church’s stance on issues like birth control, masturbation, and marriage, which emphasize masculinity and the importance of family.
The digital space is playing a significant role in this movement, with podcasts, videos, and social media platforms helping to spread the church’s message. Father Moses, a popular ROCOR priest, has built a large following online, where he shares his views on traditional values and masculine spirituality.
Many converts are drawn to the church’s emphasis on community and tradition, which is seen as a refreshing alternative to modern America’s focus on individualism and consumerism. Buck Johnson, a former firefighter who hosts a popular podcast, says that orthodoxy has helped him see the world in a different way, particularly when it comes to his views on Russia.
The church’s stance on issues like homosexuality and civil unions is also attracting attention from those who feel marginalized by Western liberal values. Some converts are even considering relocating to Russia, where they can live out their faith without compromise.
While some critics view the Russian Orthodox Church as too rigid or authoritarian, many converts see it as a breath of fresh air in a world that has lost its way. As one convert puts it, “I think orthodoxy fits us well – and especially in Texas.”
Source: https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/c30q5l8d4lro