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A spiritual and educational cluster for youth was opened in Samaratranslated

October 5, 2026 · 1 min read

On September 29, 2026, the grand opening of the spiritual and educational youth cluster “Startup Spirit” took place in the city of Samara.

The cluster was created on the initiative of the head of the direction of pilgrimage development of the Commission of the Russian Orthodox Church for the development of pilgrimage and the bringing of shrines, the abbess of the Intercession Alexander-Chagrinsky convent, Abbess Mikhaila (Solodukhina), and with the blessing of Metropolitan Feodosius of Samara and Novokuybyshevsk, reports the website of the Samara diocese.

Photo: samepar.ru

Before the opening ceremony, Bishop Theodosius consecrated the premises of the new spiritual and educational space.

It is noted that the cluster has several thematic spaces: “Blacksmithing”, “ART space”, “Interactive story”, “Attic” and “Location of meanings”.

Each of these spaces will operate in its own format - from practical creativity to discussion of historical, cultural and spiritual topics.

Photo: samepar.ru

The “Startup Spirit” cluster is designed primarily for young people aged 16 to 25 years. It is planned to hold cultural, social and educational events at the site, organize training,…

Source: Журнал ФОМА · Read the full story →

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Дарья Виноградова

It’s good that they made a blacksmith’s craft and an interactive story - my son is just at that age, he would definitely like it. And “Attic” and “Location of Meanings” sound interesting, I hope there will be not only conversations, but also normal master classes. Well done for opening this in Samara.

Vuk Marković

A good deed, especially blacksmithing and an interactive story - for a kid aged 16-25 this is definitely closer than just sitting and listening. In Nisha, after such workshops, guys are more willing to come to church. It’s a pity that we don’t have it in Samara, but well done for starting it.

Daniel Miller

The blacksmithing and interactive history spots sound like a smart draw for guys that age—my nephew would probably skip his phone for that. Nice they got the bishop to bless the place right at the start. Hope the “Location of Meanings” room ends up with some real hands-on stuff too, not just talk.

Juliana King

The blacksmithing and interactive history spots do sound like a good hook for that age group. I remember our youth group here in San Francisco tried a simple metalworking afternoon last spring and half the boys stayed way longer than planned. Wonder if they’ll let the kids actually swing a hammer in the forge or if it’s more of a demo.