Tambov Diocese on the Eve and During the Russo-Japanese War of 1904-1905

Abstract

The Tambov Diocese greeted the beginning of the Russo-Japanese War, like the entire Church, like all of Russia, with prayers for the health of the Sovereign Emperor and the granting of a speedy victory to the Russian army over the enemy. The activities of the clergy and all institutional institutions of the Tambov Diocese from the first day had a clearly expressed patriotic character. The clergy, as the most educated class - the class called upon by the state and church authorities to acquaint the population of the empire with changes in legislation, to inform about the state of affairs in the theater of military operations and within the country, called on the flock to spiritual renewal, linking military failures with the moral state of Russian society, and also explained the need for certain actions that should be taken by those in need of benefits and privileges. The sacrificial service of the clergy, their attitude towards their flock found a response in the hearts of the parishioners, and the moral guidelines set by the sermon, in general, determined the behavior of the majority of residents of the Tambov province during the military events in the Far East of 1904-1905.