The recent funeral of Russian opposition leader Aleksei A. Navalny at a church in southern Moscow has sparked discussions about the complex relationship between the Russian Orthodox Church and the Kremlin.
The image of Navalny’s body in a coffin at the Church of the Icon of the Mother of God Soothe My Sorrows highlights the traditions of the Orthodox Church, which has historically been intertwined with the Russian government. Despite this close relationship, the church also has a history of counting opposition figures like Navalny among its faithful.
Navalny, who described himself as a “typical post-Soviet believer,” had a complicated relationship with his faith. He embraced Orthodox Christianity as a way to feel connected to something larger but also expressed political dissent that clashed with the conservative views of the church and President Vladimir V. Putin.
The funeral scene depicted Navalny’s parents and other relatives, but notably absent were his widow, Yulia Navalnaya, and their children, who now live outside of Russia. Yulia has vowed to continue her husband’s political activities, putting herself at risk of arrest.
The Orthodox Church’s support for Putin’s actions, such as the invasion of Ukraine, has caused tension with critics like Navalny. While some priests have voiced opposition to the war, they have faced consequences from church authorities and even arrest.
The church where Navalny’s funeral took place has shown support for the war effort, organizing donations and activities for soldiers. This stance reflects the broader trend of militarization in Russian society, symbolized by the grand Cathedral of the Russian Armed Forces.
Navalny’s funeral serves as a reminder of the complexities of faith, politics, and dissent in Russia, where individuals like Navalny must navigate the overlapping spheres of religion and government.
