Text of an interview Pet Hawk author Dmitry Chen gave to Moscow News, upon the release of the book in Russian, in 2007.

A book that dares to explore the humanity of priests and pilgrims, saints and sinners, Faith & Humor has been both a runaway bestseller in Russia and the focus of heated controversy – as often happens when a thoughtful writer takes on sacred cows. The stories, aphorisms, anecdotes, dialogues and adventures in this volume comprise an encyclopedia of modern Russian Orthodoxy, and thereby of Russian life.

In recent years, a resurgent interest in religious pilgrimages has swept through Russia. Stella Rock joined 20,000 Russians on a 150-kilometer journey through Kirov region and brought back this story.

If the people can't come to church, then it may be time to take the church to the people. Alexander Mozhayev takes us on a visit to a church that makes its home along the river, aboard a converted barge.

The Church's celebration of the Nativity is on January 7th; information about the Feasts of Christ's coming into the world and Scripture readings for the services and Liturgies.

St. Basil the Blessed is both a well known Moscow landmark and cherished saint. Learn about the ten pillars of the cathedral and what it means to be a 'fool for Christ.'

Easter survived by stealth and cunning through the Soviet era. Now it is making a triumphant comeback in Russia as the country grasps religion anew.

Examination of the history of this Christian tradition, which is in full communion with the Church of Rome.

Canonization, in the Orthodox Church, is different from sainthood in the Catholic Church. Learn how and why individuals are added to the canon and the role this plays in Orthodox spirituality.

The Cross is the universal symbol of Christianity, thanks to Constantine. The Slavic Cross is unique in that it has three, not one, crossbars. Learn the rich symbology of this symbol.

Editor's choice of books about Russian Orthodox Christianity.

The Russian Orthodox Church Council of Bishops voted in favor of canonization of Tsar Nicholas II and family on August 14, 2000.  The ceremony was held in the newly concecrated Christ the Savior Cathedral on Aug. 20.  The cornerstone of the cathedral was placed on Christmas, January 7, 1995.