The ministry of the St. John of Kronstadt: actualization of experience for modern social work in the parish

The article outlines the basic principles of the social activity of the St. John of Kronstadt (1829-1908). Based on the saint’s legacy (diaries, letters, sermons), the analysis of the pastor’s charitable ministry in Kronstadt, St. Petersburg and other regions of Russia is given. The article presents the research of hagiographers and specialists of the social ministry of the Russian Orthodox Church in relation to the activities of St. John. St. John of Kronstadt proposed a new scheme for conducting charitable activities - a form of service was developed in which people in need provided for themselves. Created at St. Andrew’s Cathedral in Kronstadt, the Guardianship of the Poor was a prototype of the House of Diligence, which opened in 1882 and became famous throughout Russia. Conducting activities in a detached institution was accompanied by difficulties and searches for the most profitable and effective practices and projects for residents and management, and after a few years the House of Diligence became an effective center where guests received education, craft skills and provided for themselves and their families. It is noteworthy that Father John did not abandon his concern for other institutions created by him, these are sisterhoods, monasteries, and other organizations not only in Kronstadt, but also throughout the country.