Pimen [Sergei Irzyekov], patriarch of Russian-orthodox church, dies at age 79.

On May 3, 1990, the Russian Orthodox Church mourned the loss of their patriarch, Pimen, also known as Sergei Irzyekov. Pimen served as the head of the church for 15 years, leaving a significant impact on both the church and the Russian people. His death at the age of 79 marked the end of an era and left a void that would be difficult to fill.

Pimen was born on May 23, 1910, in the village of Pasimovka, in what is now modern-day Ukraine. He dedicated his life to the church from a young age, joining a theological seminary in 1926. In 1935, he was ordained as a priest and later served as a bishop in various dioceses across the Soviet Union.

During his time as patriarch, Pimen faced numerous challenges, both internal and external. The Russian Orthodox Church had long been under state control, particularly during the Soviet era when religious practice was severely repressed. Pimen navigated the delicate balance between maintaining the church’s integrity and appeasing the government.

One of his notable achievements was leading the church through a period of revival and rebuilding following the collapse of the Soviet Union. Under his guidance, the church experienced a resurgence in popularity and influence. Pimen focused on reconnecting with the Russian people, promoting religious education, and restoring monasteries and churches that had been neglected or destroyed.

Despite his efforts, Pimen also faced criticism during his tenure. Some accused him of being too complacent with the Soviet government and not doing enough to challenge its policies. Others believed that he should have taken a more vocal stance on social and political issues. However, it is important to note that Pimen was operating within a constrained environment, where openly opposing the government could have severe consequences for the church and its followers.

Pimen was known for his humility, simplicity, and deep spirituality. He lived a life of prayer and devotion, setting an example for his clergy and the Orthodox community. He emphasized the need for personal piety and encouraged his followers to deepen their faith through prayer, fasting, and acts of charity. Pimen believed that the church’s role was not only to provide spiritual guidance but also to actively serve the needs of the people.

His death in 1990 was a significant loss for the Russian Orthodox Church. Thousands of mourners gathered in Moscow’s Cathedral of Christ the Savior to pay their respects and bid farewell to their beloved patriarch. Pimen’s funeral was a solemn and somber occasion, attended by government officials, religious leaders, and the general public.

In the years following Pimen’s death, the Russian Orthodox Church continued to grow in influence and prominence. His successors carried on his legacy, promoting the church’s message of peace, unity, and faith. Today, the Russian Orthodox Church remains one of the largest and most influential religious institutions in Russia.

The passing of Pimen marked the end of an era for the Russian Orthodox Church. His leadership and dedication to the church had a lasting impact on its revival and growth. While he faced challenges and criticism during his tenure, Pimen’s humility, spirituality, and commitment to the Russian people will be remembered and honored for years to come.