|
 The
Russian Church was not without its own turmoils however. In 1503 came
the beginnings of a split in the monastic ranks between the Non-Possessors
(followers of St. Nilus of Sora (1508 - commemorated May 7)), who argued
for monastic poverty, and the Possessors (followers of St. Joseph of Volokolamsk
(1515 - commemorated September 9)), who defended monastic landholding.
The Non-Possessors were more lenient and gentle concerning the treatment
of heretics, considering it to be solely a Church matter, while the Possessors,
great supporters of the idea of the Third Rome, believed in a close association
between Church and State in such matters (and many others as well). In
this struggle the Possessors were victorious, but recognizing the sanctity
of both leaders, the Church has enrolled both Joseph and Nilus in the
Calendar of Saints. |
