Saint Sergius of Radonezh, his Trinity Monastery, and the Formation of the Russian Identity. By DAVID B. MILLER. * The Heart of Russia: Trinity-Sergius, Monasticism, and Society after 1825. By SCOTT M. KENWORTHY. * Spiritual Elders: Charisma and Tradition in Russian Orthodoxy. By IRINA PAERT.

Recent scholarly works have significantly advanced understanding of Russian Christianity by leveraging newly accessible archival and biographical materials. These studies, centered on the Trinity-Sergius Lavra in Sergiev Posad, reveal its pivotal role in shaping Russian identity, monasticism, and societal dynamics from the 19th century onward. One study traces the monastery's rise to preeminence, while another examines its evolving influence post-1825. A third explores the significance of spiritual elders (starets) within its community and beyond, highlighting their charismatic leadership in Russian Orthodoxy. Together, these works challenge long-standing assumptions, offering nuanced insights into the interplay between religious institutions, tradition, and national identity.

Binns, J. (2012). Saint Sergius of Radonezh, his Trinity Monastery, and the Formation of the Russian Identity. By DAVID B. MILLER. * The Heart of Russia: Trinity-Sergius, Monasticism, and Society after 1825. By SCOTT M. KENWORTHY. * Spiritual Elders: Charisma and Tradition in Russian Orthodoxy. By IRINA PAERT. The Journal of Theological Studies, 63(1), 379–383. https://doi.org/10.1093/jts/flr173