The Russian Orthodox tradition developed from the Christianization of Kievan Rus’ in the Byzantine tradition and grew through the churches, monasteries, saints, music, art, and theological life of the lands of Rus’ and Russia.
Characteristics
It celebrates the Byzantine Rite in Church Slavonic and vernacular languages and is known for a rich tradition of iconography, choral worship, monastic spirituality, spiritual eldership, and missionary activity.
Ecclesiastical expressions
In part due to issues surrounding the Russian Revolution, there is not a single Russian Orthodox Church. The tradition is represented by several ecclesiastical bodies and diasporas. Historical, jurisdictional, and political disputes should be distinguished from the shared liturgical and spiritual inheritance.