Novosibirsk, Russia, August 12, 2026
Photo: nskmi.ru
Over three decades, the Russian Orthodox Church’s St. Andrew the First-Called missionary boat-church has baptized around 20,000 people and provided medical care to more than 100,000 residents of remote villages along the Ob River.
The ship set off on its 30th charitable voyage on August 10, marking three decades of the spiritual and medical outreach mission. This year’s trip runs from August 10 to 26, reports the Novosibirsk Metropolia.
The mission brings clergy, doctors of various specialties, and social workers to hard-to-reach settlements to offer spiritual, medical, and social assistance to local residents.
At the river terminal dock, His Eminence Metropolitan Bartholomew of Novosibirsk, serving with diocesan clergy, held a moleben for travelers and blessed the missionaries before their journey.
Photo: nskmi.ru
“Today we prayed that the Lord would strengthen those who’ve set out on this missionary journey with their gracious help,” the metropolitan said in his remarks. “This wonderful project, the only one of its kind in all of Russia, unites our society and gives us the chance to carry the word of God and care to many people.”
During the voyage, doctors will hold appointments and conduct diagnostic exams, including ultrasounds and EKGs, for rural residents. Clergy from the Novosibirsk Diocese will celebrate the Sacraments of Baptism, Communion, and Confession, hold talks with residents, and lead educational events. Organizers also plan to provide direct financial assistance to low-income residents of the districts.
The boat-church first sailed the Ob River in 1996, with the mission’s main goal being to provide spiritual and social assistance to residents of remote villages.
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