Origins in Russia

17th Century

The Russian Orthodox church is racked with divergent points of view. One is that God dwells within each person: churches and ministers are therefore unnecessary.

18th Century

A group of dissidents known as the Dukhobortsi, (translated as "Spirit Wrestlers") emerges as an organized movement with its own ideology and leadership. Bread, salt and water come to symbolize Doukhobor hospitality.

June 29, 1895

As a protest against war and militarism, 7000 Doukhobor soldiers set fire to their weapons. This act of defiance leads to the persecution and exile of many Doukhobors.

Life in Russia was difficult for Doukhobors who spoke out in defence of their beliefs.