The ecclesiastical and diplomatic relations between the Russia and Jerusalem and the Antioch Orthodox Patriarchates (the second third of the XIX century)

Abstract

The scientific research exposes the ecclesiastical ties between the Russia and the Middle-East within the period of several decades - 1830-1870. Under the study are the mechanisms of interactions between the Russian governmental, diplomatic and church structures involved in the realization of the Russian policy in the Middle East within the given period.. The role of the Russian diplomacy in Turkey in the period of the critical aggravation of the Eastern question which resulted in the Crimean war of 1853-1856 is analyzed. Under examination is the history of founding of the Russian Church Mission in Jerusalem in 1847, reviving its activity in 1857, its basic tasks the role of its main representatives of the Russian orthodox Church and the diplomatic department, directly participating in its setting up and functioning. The activity of Patriarchs of Jerusalem Athanasius V and Cyril II and also Patriarchs of Antioch Methodius and Hiertheus is discussed in detail.