We heard a ringing...

On January 19, Orthodox Christians celebrated the Epiphany of the Lord. And according to the current Orthodox-patriotic tradition, the authorities did not stand aside. And the leaders of Khimki even strengthened the effect of patriotic Orthodoxy by congratulating their fellow countrymen... they themselves didn’t even understand why.

Chairman of the Council of Deputies of the Khimki City District Lyudmila Tarasova said: “On this day we honor the great saint and statesman Prince Vladimir and turn our memory to an event that was of decisive importance for the history of our country.” What kind of event happened with Prince Vladimir on January 19? Tarasova continues: “...the holiday and all the events dedicated to it return us to the beginnings of Russian statehood, contribute to preserving the memory of the origins of Slavic culture, spirituality and the consolidation of the multinational people of Russia based on the principles of patriotism, which has strengthened our state from time immemorial.”

The head of Khimki, Oleg Shakhov, echoes Tarasova: the feast of the Epiphany is “one of the most significant events in Russian history, which later allowed our state to choose its own unique path.” Forgive me, Lord, but what was so defining for Rus' in the feast of the Epiphany that was not there for believers in other lands?!

The denouement came a little later: “Today we have a rich creative heritage, spirituality, unique culture and achievements of thought - all this was laid down by our ancestors more than a thousand years ago and dates back to the Baptism of Russia by Holy Prince Vladimir.”

That's it! Orthodox patriots from Khimki, in their deep church commitment, got a little mixed up! As my friend said, who found out during the exam that Tolstoy, whom he had to read, was Leo. And he, loafing, read Alexei: “Ugh, damn, not that Tolstoy!”

On June 28, Russia will celebrate the Day of the Baptism of Rus' by Prince Vladimir. I wonder how the residents of Khimki will congratulate Shakhov and Tarasov on this holiday? Will the residents of Khimki need to look for ice holes on this summer day?