Principles of Staffing the Church Elite in Russia in the 16th Century: The Episcopate

The principles in accordance with which the church elite was formed in Russia in the late Middle Ages and early modern times are discussed. For obvious reasons, it was not hereditary. The author focuses on the criteria that candidates for vacant cathedras had to meet. It has been shown that people from the environment of the white clergy had noticeable advantages, who, even before taking the monastic vows, acquired some of the skills necessary for a leader of the Church. There were relatively few representatives of the nobility among the bishops. For a successful church career, first of all, a certain level of training and a significant monastic experience were required. Belonging to an influential intra-church group and the support of representatives of the political elite made it easier for people who, as a result of lengthy training, had already passed a certain selection.

Automated summary

This article discusses the principles of forming the church elite in Russia during the late Middle Ages and early modern times, focusing on the criteria that candidates for vacant cathedras had to meet. The advantages of individuals from the white clergy background and the importance of training, monastic experience, as well as belonging to influential intra-church groups and having the support of political elites are highlighted.