Young American Men Embrace Russian Orthodoxy for 'Hyper-Masculinity'

Driven by a desire for traditional values, an increasing number of young American men are converting to Russian Orthodoxy, finding solace in its practices and teachings that emphasize masculinity and family over modern societal norms.

In a surprising trend, many young men in the United States are flocking to Russian Orthodox churches, drawn by teachings that promote a hyper-masculine ideal. This phenomenon has been gaining momentum, particularly among individuals disenchanted with modern societal expectations and the perception of masculinity in contemporary America.

Father Moses McPherson, a robust figure and priest in the Russian Orthodox Church Outside Russia (ROCOR) in Georgetown, Texas, reports that his congregation has expanded significantly in the past 18 months, now tripling its size. His sermons often focus on promoting an unapologetic form of masculinity, where traditional male roles are celebrated, and perceived feminine behaviors—like wearing skinny jeans or embracing emotional expression—are openly criticized.

The clamor for “absurd levels of manliness” resonates especially with those like Theodore, a former hardcore skeptic of religion, who encountered an inner void despite professional success and personal fulfillment. Many converts echo his sentiments, feeling modern society imposes an unfair narrative around gender dynamics. It is commonplace for these new adherents to opt for home-schooling to ensure their children receive education aligned with conservative values, avoiding discussions of topics they deem inappropriate such as gender identity issues.

Orthodox Christianity represents a small subset of American religious affiliations, but its conservative stance positions it appealingly for a demographic that resists the narrative of progressive ideologies. Scholars point out a noticeable gender imbalance within these communities, as a rise in male converts has been documented since the onset of the pandemic, correlating with a burgeoning number of young men seeking a steadfast faith that aligns with their beliefs of masculinity.

Notable figures, like Professor Scott Kenworthy, assert this growth is not an isolated incident but part of a broader movement where men seek community and purpose through shared religious beliefs. The digital realm has made it considerably easier for figures like Father Moses to engage with potential converts; a single Instagram post can attract thousands of likes.

Father Moses asserts that those who marry are encouraged to expand their families without the use of contraception, rejecting modern views on family planning. His assertion that mainstream churches are increasingly geared toward women reflects his belief that traditional male expressions of faith and fellowship are overlooked.

Further entwined with this shift is the perception of Russia as a bastion of traditional values, especially under Patriarch Kirill's

leadership, who has supported political actions framed as 'defensive' in nature. Converts have expressed admiration for the Russian Orthodox Church's stance against Western liberal trends while advocating for a return to 'traditional marriage' and family structures devoid of modern influences.

As young men embrace these beliefs, they often express a yearning for a lifestyle rooted in community and family, rejecting the consumerism they associate with contemporary American life. For many, this means a profound reevaluation of their values, as they turn away from instant gratification towards a life resonant with deep-rooted traditions and communal ties, finding solace and identity in the orthodox tenets of faith.