Understanding the tradition as the basis of identity in orthodox parishes in small Russian towns (using two cases as an example)

The article explores the concept of tradition through a field study of two Orthodox parishes that have emerged over the past 15 years in formerly atheist regions of Russia. The selection of these two parishes is based on their comparatively recent formation, yet they have already established their own tradition, which allows for a clear demonstration of the process of its formation. The article describes how the identity of the parish that it formed, its place in the city, region, and diocese, and how the main qualities inherent in an Orthodox parish are determined. The theoretical approaches of Karl Popper, Hannah Arendt, Eric Hobsbawm, Siegfried Wiedenhofer, and Eugen Diverman were used to categorize tradition in the article. According to each of these authors, tradition is defined differently, with each highlighting its own characteristics and what tradition is opposed to. However, in the cases presented in this article, each theory is reflected in different aspects of the activities of both parishes. In each of them, tradition is seen as something created by parishioners and priests within the community, including through practices brought from outside and interaction with external actors. In this case, the youthfulness of the priest and the fact that he recently received education are perceived as important factors in the development of the parish, and openness, the ability to change quickly, and self-organize are considered traditionally inherent qualities of an Orthodox parish and are contrasted with excessive ritualism and rigidity. In both parishes, tradition is viewed as a dynamic concept that can change in accordance with socio-historical conditions and context. At the same time, parishioners actively participate in shaping tradition, including incorporating new elements brought from outside. This tradition becomes not only a binding force between people but also a force that unites them as a whole, creating an atmosphere of warmth and responsiveness.