In Georgetown, Texas, Father Moses McPherson, a muscular, bearded priest of the Russian Orthodox Church Outside Russia (ROCOR), is gaining online attention and converts through his outspoken embrace of traditional masculinity. His viral videos denounce what he calls feminized behaviors—like wearing skinny jeans or eating soup—as antithetical to true manhood. Alongside heavy metal-fueled weightlifting clips, his unapologetic stance draws both praise and criticism. Supporters see him as a bold voice for truth, while detractors accuse him of promoting outdated gender norms and toxic masculinity. His growing influence is reshaping religious identity for a niche yet passionate audience.
A Religious Home for Disillusioned Young Men
ROCOR’s appeal among young American men is growing. Father Moses has prepared 75 people for baptism in the past six months alone. Many new followers, often in their twenties and thirties, say they’re drawn to Orthodoxy’s structure and clarity. Converts like Theodore, a former software engineer, say modern society vilifies male roles, such as being a family breadwinner. Others, like firefighter and podcaster Buck Johnson, cite Orthodoxy’s stability and refusal to close during the COVID-19 pandemic as reasons for joining. Critics argue this resurgence aligns too closely with anti-modern sentiment and may foster insularity or extreme nationalism.
Conservatism, Homeschooling, and Family-Centered Living
Nearly all converts interviewed homeschool their children and embrace traditional gender roles. ROCOR leaders encourage large families, reject contraception, and condemn masturbation as unmanly. They see modern American culture as overly feminized and hostile to religious values. For many, this conservative interpretation of Orthodoxy provides a spiritual counterbalance to what they view as liberal overreach. Critics warn that these teachings could marginalize women and alienate less traditional believers, potentially narrowing the faith’s appeal. Despite this, congregations continue to swell.
Online Influence and Russian Ties Raise Concerns
Critics warn that some converts adopt an extreme, almost militant view of Orthodoxy. Elissa Bjeletich Davis, a Greek Orthodox Sunday school teacher, says the faith is sometimes misrepresented as rigid and authoritarian. The church’s alignment with Russian leadership also worries some observers. Patriarch Kirill of Moscow has declared the war in Ukraine a “Holy War,” sparking backlash. Yet many converts defend Russia’s stance and see it as preserving authentic Christian values.
From Texas to Russia: A Migration of Values
A small but vocal movement is encouraging conservative Americans to relocate to Russia. Father Joseph Gleason, a former Texan priest, now resides in a Russian village with his family. He praises the country’s stance against gay marriage and secular education. With President Putin introducing a “shared values” visa, more are contemplating such a move. For those who feel alienated by modern American culture, Orthodoxy—and Russia—offers a way to reclaim tradition, stability, and a sense of spiritual purpose.
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Young US men are joining Russian churches promising ‘absurd levels of manliness’
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