Missionary activity of the bishop of Rybinsk, vicar of Yaroslavl diocese Vasily (Biryukov) in Western Siberia

In the proposed article, based on materials from a number of federal and regional archives and other Imperial Russian sources, an attempt was made for the first time to restore the main stages of the life path and spiritual ministry of Bishop of Rybinsk, vicar of the Yaroslavl diocese Vasily (Biryukov; 1871-1921) - a representative of an old family of Siberian Orthodox clergy, a student of St. Petersburg Theological Academy, a candidate of theology, a wonderful teacher, mentor and educator of youth, a talented missionary, educator of the indigenous peoples of the North, an excellent preacher, a zealous worshiper and organizer of monastic life, who accepted the cross of confession during the years of the Civil War and Bolshevik persecution of the Russian Orthodox Church. The author details and analyzes previously unknown biographical materials: about the origin of the bishop, his parents, childhood, adolescence and youth, years of study in theological educational institutions, explores the pages of his pedagogical, missionary, scientific and preaching activities, episcopal service and spiritual achievement.