This is a day of remembrance and mourning for those who were innocently killed or otherwise suffered in political repressions in Russia. The day is marked by ceremonies including the laying of wreaths by St. Petersburg’s municipal authorities in Levashovo Memorial Cemetery, the former site of executions and mass burials in 1937-1953. Clergy and laypeople of The Church of Ingria held a traditional prayer service in the cemetery, remembering their loves ones and church ministers who fell victim to the injustice.

 

“He raises up the poor from the dust; he lifts the needy from the ash heap to make them sit with princes and inherit a seat of honor. For the pillars of the earth are the LORD’s, and on them he has set the world. He will guard the feet of his faithful ones, but the wicked shall be cut off in darkness, for not by might shall a man prevail.” (1 Sam. 2:8-9, ESV).