Orthodox clergy and the union of the Russian people: problems of relationship

The article deals with the relation of orthodox clergy of the Russian Church at the beginning of the 20th century to the Union of the Russian People, the largest Black Hundred organization. The author reveals the main aspects and problems which caused clergy's oppositional moods in relation to the union. Along with program provisions of the union, the author analyzes the interpersonal relations of church hierarchs and leaders of the Union of the Russian People. The author proves the thought that the Union of the Russian People was in great need of support from the orthodox clergy. The article describes the reasons of conflict between supporters of the monarchical union and the Orthodox clergy. The author shows the role of the Union chairmen in the personal relationships with the clergy. Many priests did not approve of the fact that the Union representatives had taken the old rite. This condition has put many pastors from joining the ranks of the Black Hundreds. The problem of the relationship between priests and monarchists consisted in the fact that the clergy and the Black Hundreds were in strong opposition as well as their policies. The author emphasizes that the Black Hundred organizations actively invited Orthodox pastors into their ranks, covered their banners and headquarters. The problem of the relationship between the clergy and the monarchists caused the personal animosity. The article also reveals another cause of conflict between the Union of the Russian People and the priests - ideological and religious principles. Many pastors demonstrated the radical behavior of the Black Hundred movement. Many priests joined the Union on October 17 as a more moderate party. Despite the conflicts between the Orthodox clergy and monarchists, many priests joined the ranks of right-wing organizations. The author shows that the monarchists tried to recruit all those who fought against revolutionary riots. The author comes to conclusion that the opposition between the orthodox clergy and the Union of the Russian People was generally expressed in the rejection of some of the Union's program provisions by clergy, and also in the refusal to promote and use Black Hundred attributes in temples.