The Holy Spirit: two-thirds of a Russian documentary

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I admit that I had some reservations about sharing the videos below. Not because they present any difficulties in their content — which I think is quite good — but because of the possible feedback I might get from some readers. You see, the two videos below are the first two parts of a Russian documentary trilogy, with English subtitles, made last year. Needless to say, if I didn’t believe they were truly worthwhile, I wouldn’t post them. They beautifully express, with stunning visuals and intelligent, integrated conversations, the Eastern Orthodox understanding of the Holy Spirit and how he relates to the Christian’s deep spiritual life. In short, since this is a Substack about mystical practice and primarily focused on classical Christianity, these videos are appropriately educative. Obviously (if it requires saying at all), I am appalled by the invasion of Ukraine by Russia and certainly by the Moscow Patriarchate’s defense of it. If I felt that the incursion was representative of the true heart of Russian Orthodox faith and piety, though, I wouldn’t want anything to do with it. But I don’t see it that way; neither do many — probably most — average Russians, both inside and outside Russia.

With all that said, I’ve decided to post the first two parts of this fascinating trilogy. The third part hasn’t been released yet, but when it is I intend to post that one, too. As already mentioned, the subtitles are in English and are, for the most part, translated well (there are also versions with subtitles in other languages on YouTube). I think the young man who made the documentary, Boris Korchevnikov, is guileless, sincere, devout, and very clearly knowledgeable. What he brings out in the elders he interviews, both male and female, is pure gold. I was especially appreciative of the second part, which addresses the “acquisition” of the Holy Spirit (which is explained admirably), but both videos are rich in insight and information. I advise attentiveness when viewing. (Some of you will no doubt recognize themes I’ve touched on in recent posts and there are others here I will soon be touching on.)

What frames the series is the famous dialogue between Nicholas Motovilov and St. Seraphim of Sarov in 1831. That moving account can be read by clicking here. (On a sour note, Russia chose Sarov to be the center for its nuclear armaments complex, and the notably gentle St. Seraphim was named the patron saint of the program; one can read about that travesty by clicking here.)

At any rate, here are the two videos, which — again — I regard as valuable viewing, educational, and inspiring. Perhaps they might serve as a reminder, too, that great spiritual depth exists uncomfortably in this age alongside the demonic evil of men.

If the YouTube links below have been made unavailable, you can watch the videos online with English subtitles here:

Part One can be seen by clicking here.

Part Two can be seen by clicking here.