Surge of Young Men Joining Russian Orthodox Churches in the U.S.
In a remarkable shift within the religious landscape of America, a growing number of young men are gravitating towards Russian Orthodox churches, intrigued by their promotion of traditional masculinity and a strong community presence. One figure at the forefront of this movement is Father Moses McPherson, a pastor whose congregation in Georgetown, Texas, has seen a remarkable threefold increase in membership over the past year and a half.
The Appeal of ‘Absurd Manliness’
Father Moses has gained notoriety through online platforms, where he speaks passionately about embracing a version of masculinity that he considers to be lost in contemporary society. He openly rebuffs behaviors he associates with femininity, such as wearing skinny jeans or housework, and instead advocates for traditional male roles in family life. His approach resonates particularly with men who feel adrift in a modern cultural landscape that often criticizes traditional masculine roles.
“A lot of people ask me how they can increase their manliness to absurd levels,” says Father Moses in one of his energetic YouTube videos where he often shares his fitness regime alongside heavy metal music.
Growing Interest Among Millennial Converts
This embrace of Russian Orthodoxy seems increasingly appealing to young men struggling with societal pressures. Theodore, a software engineer and recent convert, revealed that despite his successful career and a loving partner, he felt a profound emptiness in his life. “We are told that wanting to be the primary source of income is toxic,” he lamented, adding that many men today feel that their aspirations clash with modern societal values.
Additionally, many converts have opted for homeschooling, reflecting their belief that women’s primary focus should be on family rather than careers. Archpriest John Whiteford, another ROCOR leader, contends that homeschooling protects children from discussions around modern social issues, which they view as inappropriate and distracting.
An Expanding Community
The Russian Orthodox Church Outside Russia (ROCOR), which has its roots in the diaspora of priests fleeing the Russian Revolution, remains a small segment of the American religious population, yet its membership is growing, especially among men. Recent studies have indicated that a significant portion of new converts is male, a notable increase compared to previous years.
The influx of converts is closely tied to the COVID-19 pandemic, which many report spurred their search for faith and community. Professor Scott Kenworthy observes this trend across multiple parishes, noting that previously steady church attendance has now surged with new individuals eager for baptism and spiritual engagement.
Cultural Reflections in Faith
The dynamics within these churches also reflect broader cultural sentiments. Some members feel that Orthodox Christianity represents a counter-narrative to what they perceive as the over-feminization of other Christian denominations. Father Moses himself expressed his aversion to emotional worship styles typical of contemporary churches, emphasizing a more disciplined approach to faith.
This pursuit of a “masculine” faith has not gone unnoticed. Elissa Bjeletich Davis, a convert and Sunday school teacher, highlighted that many newcomers carry preconceived notions about the church’s rigid, military-like structure, sometimes echoing sentiments reminiscent of early American Puritan values.
Converts Reflect on Societal Perspectives
Another convert, Buck Johnson, a firefighter and podcaster, shared his initial hesitations about entering the church due to his appearance. He noted a warm welcome from the congregation, which has helped reshape his worldview. “I think there’s a holdover from the Boomer generation that views Russia negatively, but I see a different side,” he stated, hinting at the geopolitical narratives attributed to the country and its church leadership.
Religious Demographics of New Members
| Demographic | Percentage |
|---|---|
| Male Converts (2017) | 46% |
| Male Converts (2021) | 64% |
| Congregation Growth in ROCOR | 300% |
This renewed emphasis on tradition and community seems to provide many young men with a sense of belonging and purpose. As Father Moses and his followers continue to grow in number, their community serves as a poignant reminder of how faith can evolve while holding steadfast to long-standing values.
