Putin orders preparations for 150th Anniversary of St. Luke of Crimea’s birth

Russian President Vladimir Putin has signed a decree ordering preparations for the celebration of the 150th anniversary of the birth of St. Luke of Crimea (Valentin Felixovich Voino-Yasenetsky), which will be commemorated in 2027.

The presidential decree, No. 477, was signed on July 9, 2026, and outlines the organizational measures required to prepare for the anniversary celebrations.

The document highlights St. Luke’s significant contribution to the preservation and development of spiritual and moral traditions, as well as his achievements in medicine and science.

“Taking into account the significant contribution of St. Luke of Crimea (V.F. Voino-Yasenetsky) to the preservation and development of spiritual and moral traditions, the advancement of medicine and science, and in connection with the 150th anniversary of his birth in 2027, I hereby decree,” the document states.

Under the decree, commemorative events dedicated to the anniversary will be held throughout 2027.

The Russian government has been instructed, within three months, to establish an organizing committee responsible for preparing and coordinating the celebrations and to approve its membership. The…