Russia

Since AD 988, when Russia proclaimed Christianity as a state religion, Russian Orthodox has remained as the most significant religion in Russia. Russian Orthodox has been deeply imbedded in the mind and culture of Russia that it even survived lengthy religious persecution during the Soviet era, which was from 1917 to 1991. Now, most Russians are inactive with religion. Yet, many of them would still celebrate religious holidays such as Easter and Christmas, and decorate their houses with candles and the sign of the cross. It is said, “No single element has done more to shape the national character of Russians, whether at home or abroad, than the Russian Orthodox Church” (MulticulturalCanada).

• Central Intelligence Agency. (2019, December 8). The World Factbook:  Russia. Retrieved December 27, 2019, from https://www.cia.gov/the-world-factbook/countries/russia/
• Encyclopedia of the Nations. (n.d.). Russia – Location, size and extent. Retrieved July 9, 2014, from http://www.nationsencyclopedia.com/Europe/Russia-LOCATION-SIZE-AND-EXTENT.html
• Foreign Affairs and International Trade Canada. (2011, December 15). Russian Federation. Retrieved July 9, 2014, from https://www.international.gc.ca/cil-cai/country_insights-apercus_pays/overview-apercu_ru.aspx?lang=eng
• MulticulturalCanada. (n.d.). Community Life and Religion, Russians. Retrieved July 9, 2014, from
• “Russians,” vol. 4 of Worldmark Encyclopedia of Cultures and Daily Life, 4 vols. Detroit: Gale Research, 1998.
• Statistics Canada. (2022, Oct 26). Table 98-10-0302-01 Immigrant status and period of immigration by place of birth and citizenship: Canada, provinces and territories and census metropolitan areas with parts. Retrieved June 6, 2023 from https://doi.org/10.25318/9810030201-eng