Patriarch
Patriarch Tikhon (in the world Vasily Ivanovich Bellavin, 1865–1925) was the first Patriarch of Moscow and All Russia after the restoration of the patriarchate in 1917. He studied at the Pskov Seminary and the St. Petersburg Theological Academy, taught theology, and in 1891 was tonsured a monk with the name Tikhon. He served in several dioceses, including in North America, where from 1898 to 1907 he headed the Aleutian and North American diocese.
Upon his return to Russia, he governed the dioceses of Yaroslavl and Vilnius and took part in the Synod. In 1917 he was elected Metropolitan of Moscow, and at the All-Russian Council that same year, the patriarchate was restored. By lot, Tikhon was chosen Patriarch, an election regarded as an act of Divine Providence.
He led the Church during the revolution and persecution, openly opposing violence and sacrilege, supporting clergy and faithful. Despite constant pressure from the authorities, he remained steadfast in faith until his repose on April 7, 1925.
In 1981 Patriarch Tikhon was canonized by the Russian Orthodox Church Outside Russia, and in 1989 by the Russian Orthodox Church as a saint and confessor.
