Formation of the Network of Spiritual and Church Education Institutions in Odesa in the 19th Century

Abstract

The article examines the peculiarities of the formation of the network of spiritual and church education institutions in Odesa, which became the cathedral city of the Kherson-Tavriya Eparchy in 1837. The peculiarities of the development of spiritual education in the city are analyzed. The specifics of the formation and development of Kherson (since 1871 – Odesa), theological seminary, the eparchial school for girls from religious families and theological schools are revealed and the role of Archbishop Gavriil (Rozanov) in the implementation of this process is indicated. The characteristic differences of the educational process in the theological seminary from similar institutions in others provinces are considered. The role of the first elected rector Martiry Fedorovich Chemena in the successful development of the seminary during 1868-1900 is emphasized. The involvement of highly qualified teachers who were candidates of theology, which ensured a high level of education for seminarians.

The specifics of the establishment and activity of the Odesa girl’s school at the Archangel-Michael Monastery are considered. The formation of primary church education institutions in the city and the problems associated with it were studied. In schools and colleges opened at Odesa churches and monasteries children could receive primary education and religious education aimed at strengthening the position of Orthodoxy. The formation of church educational institutions on the example of the Odesa Church of the Kazan Icon of the Mother of God which is located on Peresyp is traced. The contribution of eparchial bishop and clergy to the development of church education is clarified. The dynamics of the growth of church parish schools during the second half of the 19 – the beginning of the 20 centuries were considered. It is proved that during this period there was an intensification of the development of the church educational institutions, which were competitive in relation to zemstvo’ schools, which had better conditions for their activities. The importance of parish schools, their place and role in the education system is revealed.