St. Andrew’s Anglican Church in Moscow, the only official Anglican congregation in Russia, has suspended its worship services amid a leadership and legal dispute. The congregation, affiliated with the Church of England, cited the absence of authorized personnel under Russian law as the reason. The announcement stressed that no group linked to foreign religious organizations, including the Church of England’s Diocese in Europe, may legally lead services in the church without approval.
Tensions Emerge Over Church Control and Governance
The internal dispute centers around who controls the Anglican Church in Moscow. Rev. Canon Arun John, appointed chaplain in December 2024, alleged that a faction within the church has unlawfully taken over its administration and finances. In a newsletter, he accused the group of hacking the church’s website and communication channels, spreading false information, and attempting to block his visa return to Russia. John praised lay leaders for resisting these actions, specifically commending Warden Nicolette Kirk and Treasurer Suresh Rose for their resilience amid threats.
Russian Law Limits Foreign Religious Influence
Russian authorities maintain strict oversight over religious groups, particularly those with foreign ties. St. Andrew’s clarified that services conducted under the direction of foreign-based Anglican authorities are not recognized legally by Russian law. The church emphasized that the Diocese in Europe does not have the right to manage religious activities within Russia. This legal stance complicates the church’s connection to its parent body, highlighting the challenges for foreign-linked faith groups operating in Russia.
Historical Significance and Legal Pressures on Protestant Churches
Founded in 1825 and consecrated in 1885, St. Andrew’s is historically significant as Russia’s only purpose-built Anglican church. Its property was confiscated in 1920 and only restored to the Anglican community in 1994. Despite its legacy, the current conflict raises concerns about its future, especially amid Russia’s increasing restrictions on non-Orthodox religious groups.
Broader Religious Climate Raises Concerns
The Russian government has cracked down on unregistered congregations, especially Protestant ones. Laws passed in 2016 have tightened restrictions on evangelism and preaching. Supporters of St. Andrew’s fear the church may become another casualty of the state’s efforts to prioritize Russian Orthodoxy. Critics, however, argue that internal divisions and unclear governance also contributed to the crisis.
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Lone Anglican church in Moscow suspends worship services
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