Russia Halts Circulation of 1,000 Ruble Note Over Orthodox Church Complaint

Russia’s central bank suspended the circulation of a new 1,000 ruble note after complaints from Orthodox priests. The note featured an image of a church dome without a cross, which some clergy claimed was inappropriate. The design included two religious sites in Tatarstan: a minaret with an Islamic crescent and an Orthodox church dome. The church in question had its cross removed by Bolsheviks in 1917 and now serves as a state museum.

The Russian Orthodox Church has seen increased influence under President Vladimir Putin. In response to the controversy, the central bank halted production of the note, marking a rare reversal. Priest Pavel Ostrovsky, a prominent figure with 174,000 followers on Telegram, suggested the design was either a mistake or a provocation by Islamic followers in Tatarstan. He noted that most Russians are unaware of the church’s historical context.

The Orthodox Church welcomed the decision, calling it “very correct.” A spokesman, Vladimir Legoyda, emphasized that the cross symbolizes the religious and cultural identity of the majority of Russians and is a natural part of the country’s state symbols. This reflects the deepening ties between the church and state in Russia.

Patriarch Kirill, the leader of the Russian Orthodox Church, has increasingly aligned with the government. Recently, he blessed Russia’s military actions in Ukraine and praised the country’s nuclear weapons during a prayer service in Moscow’s main cathedral. He claimed the weapons were created “under the protection” of a saint.

The incident highlights the role of the Orthodox Church in shaping national identity and public discourse in Russia. As the church continues to influence political and cultural matters, its relationship with the state remains a significant aspect of the country’s landscape.

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