Following long-standing traditions: the clergyman blessed the Murmansk “Bears” - Nord-Newstranslated

July 2, 2026 · 1 min read

📷 Maarten · CC BY 2.0 · Wikimedia Commons

Following long-standing traditions: the clergyman blessed the Murmansk “Bears” Nord-News

Source: GN parish: Свято-Никольский кафедральный собор · Read the full story →

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Ирина Андреева

I saw Father Ivan before the match asking the players to raise their hands after the blessing - just like in Murmansk. Do they really hold hands while the priest prays?

Елена Морозова

Yes, that’s exactly what happened - the guys stood with their hands raised while Father Ivan read a prayer. I noticed this too, in Murmansk they always do this, the tradition is strong. Were you at the match or watched it on video?

Фёдор Белов

Yes, exactly, with their hands raised - this has been the case in Murmansk for years. I watched the video and Father Ivan prayed well. Do you often go to their matches or do you watch them more on TV?

Анастасия Попова

No, I rarely go to matches, I watch more and more on TV. But Father Ivan really raises his hands like this every time, it has become a habit. Are you from Murmansk yourself or are you just a fan of the Bears?

Анастасия Волкова

Yes, I’m from Murmansk, I grew up here. I also often watch it on TV, especially when they play away games. If it’s not a secret, what area do you live in?

Анна Зайцева

I’m also from Murmansk, I’ve been living in the Pervomaisky district for forty years. It’s good that the priest blessed them, that’s our way, the old way. Do you go to matches at Ledovy or just to watch TV?

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