Mikhail, a Kabardinian

 

Mikhail, a Kabardinian

 

   I was born in the city of Nalchik. In my early school years I studied in a special class in which they taught us the ABCs of Islam and the Arabic language. From early childhood I grew to be a pious boy and was interested in questions of existence, the origin of the world, and what awaits us after death.

 

When I was thirteen years old my family moved to Moscow. By God’s will I ended up in a special class in the capital, and also, where the Law of God was taught by my future spiritual father. Just the same, I did not pay much attention to this subject. But one time an event occurred that changed my whole life. In one of the lessons my classmate sat next to me and asked me where I came from. We talked, and the conversation turned to religion. He said that my views were not true, and began telling me about Christ. At first my reaction was abrupt and even aggressive, but the young missionary was not frightened and went on talking. I was impressed by his courage. I have to admit that I thought Christians were timid and did not think that someone would dare to come to me and preach. But this humble boy was astoundingly bold. At that moment he courageously began to prove the truth of Orthodoxy, to prove that Christ is the Savior. He himself admitted that he didn’t know why he felt such an urgent need to start talking to me about God. Neither before, nor after this did he ever approach anyone in the same way. Seeing that he had no intention of leaving me alone I accepted his invitation to go the “Law of God” class.I only needed two sessions to become an Orthodox Christian without looking back. A little while later I firmly resolved to be baptized. But in the church they asked me to wait until I reached the age of eighteen, so that there would be no problems with my parents. Thus, for four years I went to church, where they finally baptized me. My life changed. I had chronic illnesses from childhood, but after baptism they disappeared.

 

Much has happened since that time. At first there were problems with my family, arguments, misunderstandings, pressure, threats. My parents were afraid that after coming to the capital their son had fallen under someone’s influence or into the hands of a sect. But after a while they understood that everything was all right, that there were no negative effects from church life, and they calmed down. Now everyone is used to my choice.

 

Thus did my peaceful church life go on—until I met Fr. Daniel Sisoyev. No, I did not know him personally. I heard about him first from his debates with Muslims. He impressed me, and I began to study his works. Before my acquaintance with batiushka I had never thought about missionary work. I had intended to peacefully and quietly live out my life, accommodating within it both worldly and church life. But Fr. Daniel revealed to me what it means to be a real Christian. He revealed to me the full meaning of the Gospel words about how we cannot serve both God and mammon (Mt. 6:24).

 

Through his works I began to know in full measure the depths of Orthodoxy, and dogmatics. An amazing, great love arose in me for him and, and for what he dedicated his whole life. By Fr. Daniel’s prayers I received no small consolation and help, and I still receive it. Although we never knew each other while he was here, I have a complete feeling that he is my friend, my helper. The life and works of Fr. Daniel have had a great influence on me, and became a determining factor in my spiritual life. I always feel his help and presence, and I listen to his lectures nearly every day.

 

As for my own people, I will be very glad for the rebirth of Orthodoxy—after all, Kabardinians, and in fact the entire north Caucasus, was once Christian. Our goal is to return to our roots.