Amidst a cultural backdrop of evolving gender norms, an increasing number of young men in the U.S. are finding solace in the Russian Orthodox Church Outside Russia (ROCOR), led by figures like Father Moses McPherson. This trend reflects a larger shift within religious communities that speaks to both spiritual needs and societal discontent.
Young Men in the US Seek 'Absurd Manliness' in Russian Orthodoxy
Young Men in the US Seek 'Absurd Manliness' in Russian Orthodoxy
A growing number of young American men are converting to Russian Orthodoxy, drawn by a unique vision of masculinity.
In the past 18 months, Father McPherson's congregation in Georgetown, Texas, has tripled, with many new followers drawn by his promotion of traditional masculinity. He dismisses modern expressions of manhood as overly feminized, emphasizing traits like strength and family commitment. New converts, like Theodore, a disillusioned software engineer, express feelings of emptiness in modern life and criticize societal attitudes toward male roles. Many of these men are opting for home-schooling to instill their values in the next generation.
While Orthodox Christianity constitutes just one percent of the U.S. population, there is a marked increase in male converts, particularly in light of the pandemic, which has spurred many to seek deeper spiritual connections. Interestingly, the appeal extends beyond belief, attracting men who resonate with cultural conservatism and react against what they perceive as the excesses of modern American society.
Discussions within the community vary, from rejection of contraception to a disdain for contemporary worship styles that evoke emotionalism. Despite being a small religious group, ROCOR reflects a microcosm of broader societal movements, where expressions of traditional masculinity collide with the realities and debates of today’s world. Ultimately, this modular faith community is attracting those who find meaning in its values of family and long-term commitment, countering the fast-paced consumerism they seek to escape.
While Orthodox Christianity constitutes just one percent of the U.S. population, there is a marked increase in male converts, particularly in light of the pandemic, which has spurred many to seek deeper spiritual connections. Interestingly, the appeal extends beyond belief, attracting men who resonate with cultural conservatism and react against what they perceive as the excesses of modern American society.
Discussions within the community vary, from rejection of contraception to a disdain for contemporary worship styles that evoke emotionalism. Despite being a small religious group, ROCOR reflects a microcosm of broader societal movements, where expressions of traditional masculinity collide with the realities and debates of today’s world. Ultimately, this modular faith community is attracting those who find meaning in its values of family and long-term commitment, countering the fast-paced consumerism they seek to escape.
