Orthodox churches of Voronezh: Pokrovsky Cathedral and Church of St. Nicholas the Wonderworker

2024 Author: Miguel Ramacey | [email protected]. Last modified: 2023-12-17 06:11

Voronezh, founded in 1586, has many ancient temples. They formed its image and architecture, becoming an integral part of the city. Initially, the churches of Voronezh were made of wood, which over time were transformed into stone cathedrals that adorn the city. The founding of the Voronezh diocese marked the beginning of a new Orthodox life in the city, which belongs to the holy places of Russia.

Orthodox churches of Voronezh

In addition to the Orthodox knowledge of God and holding services, the churches of Voronezh occupy a leading position in the formation of the architectural appearance of the city. They complement its appearance with high-rise buildings necessary for any city. Churches were erected in Voronezh during the 16th-20th centuries. And there are still stone buildings of churches a hundred years younger than the city.

Each church in Voronezh is built in its own individual image, showing the formation of Holy Russian architecture over the centuries. The clergy took the initiative, conducting sermons not only intemples, but also carrying the Word of God to secular educational institutions. Most of them, having served for decades in the same parish, handed the case over to their sons-in-law and sons, creating a dynasty of clergymen.

Pokrovsky Cathedral

The Intercession Cathedral in Voronezh is considered fundamental in the region. Until the beginning of the 20th century. was listed as the standard of classical style, from a number of the most beautiful buildings in the city. It was erected in honor of the celebration of the Most Holy Theotokos, established on October 1 (14) and approved in the XII century in Russia. The date is marked by the vision of the Apostle Andrew and his disciple Epiphanius of the Mother of God blessing, covering with her veil, the praying people in the Blachernae Church of the Mother of God, located in Constantinople. The Virgin Mary patronizes Russia, is considered the intercessor of the Russian people and is revered by them.

The construction of the Intercession Church in Voronezh from wood took place, according to the annals, at the beginning of the 17th century. Due to the need to erect a stone church, with the blessing of St. Mitrofan, in 1736 the construction of the temple began, being built in several stages, which ended by the end of the 18th century.

Temple of St. Nicholas the Wonderworker

The Orthodox Church of St. Nicholas the Wonderworker is lit in honor of St. Nicholas, patron of children, sailors, merchants and travelers. He was called the miracle worker for the miracles he performed throughout his life. There are known cases of miracles performed through the prayers of believers and after his departure into the world.other.

Before the construction of St. Nicholas Church in Voronezh, in the Naprashnaya Sloboda, at the beginning of the 17th century, a wooden church of St. Dmitry Uglitsky was rebuilt. It contained an icon of Nicholas the Wonderworker, revered in Russia. After the fire that occurred here (in 1703), only she and the altar cross survived, transferred to the temple built in 1712 from a stone. After 8 years, it was lit in honor of St. Nicholas.

In 1940 it was closed, and during the Second World War it was partially destroyed and on February 5, 1942 it was returned to the church again. In 1943 - 1949. it becomes the only one operating in the city.

Many temples of Voronezh hold Divine services to strengthen the spirit, faith and humility in our ambiguous, difficult and full of contradictions time.