Illya Bogdanov's Ordination
Illya Bogdanov, a soldier serving with the Russian Volunteer Corps of Ukraine's Defence Intelligence, has been ordained as a deacon in the Orthodox Church of Ukraine. The ordination was performed by Metropolitan Oleksandr Drabynko. Bogdanov remains on active military duty and will return to the front lines following his ordination. This event highlights the complex personal journeys of those fighting in the war.
The Life of Illya Bogdanov
Born in Russia, Illya Bogdanov was involved in nationalist movements from 2003. He is a graduate of the FSB's Khabarovsk Border Institute and served in various units, including participation in a counter-terrorist operation in Dagestan. In 2014, he switched sides to Ukraine, joining the Donbas Battalion. He later fought with the Ukrainian Volunteer Corps 'Right Sector', where he served as a platoon commander, seeing combat in Ilovaisk, Donetsk Airport, and Pisky.
Bogdanov received Ukrainian citizenship by decree of President Petro Poroshenko. In November 2016, he was kidnapped but was freed during a Security Service of Ukraine (SBU) special operation in the Kharkiv region. Following Russia's full-scale invasion in 2022, Bogdanov rejoined the fight. He was wounded, received treatment, and then enlisted with the Russian Volunteer Corps, continuing his combat against Russian forces. His path from Russian security services to a Ukrainian military chaplain is a remarkable personal transformation.
"Metropolitan Oleksandr Drabynko performed my deacon's ordination. I didn't sleep for two nights, I was so nervous... But after the bishop read the prayer for the Holy Spirit to fill what I lack for serving the Lord, I truly felt grace, and the anxiety vanished. I read in Ukrainian, I read my first kathisma as a deacon."
Illya Bogdanov
This event underscores the significance of personal transformation and spiritual growth even amidst war. Having endured numerous trials and changes in his life, Illya Bogdanov now combines military duty with spiritual service. It demonstrates how personal convictions and faith remain vital in conflict, highlighting the role of religion for service members. For him, church service may provide not only spiritual support but also additional motivation in combat.