Schema-Archimandrite Iliy (Nozdrin), the cherished confessor of Patriarch Kirill of Moscow and All Russia, passed away late at night on March 15, 2025, at the age of 93. This somber news was confirmed by the Telegram channel of the Optina Pustyn Monastery, highlighting Iliy's invaluable role within the Russian Orthodox Church.
The monastery's statement read, "Late at night on March 15, at the age of 94, our dear father Schema-Archimandrite Iliy (Nozdrin), confessor of the Patriarch of Moscow and All Russia and the brethren of the Optina Pustyn Monastery, passed away to the Lord." This announcement reflects the deep sense of loss felt throughout the monastic community and beyond.
Schema-Archimandrite Iliy was born on March 8, 1932, as Alexei Afanasyevich Nozdrin, in the village of Stanovoy Kolodez, located within the Orlovsky district. His early life was marked by humble beginnings, raised in a Christian family. Iliy pursued education, studying at a mechanical engineering college from 1955 to 1958 before his path turned toward the church. His time at the Leningrad Theological Academy connected him with Patriarch Kirill, then just Alexei Nozdrin. Kirill fondly recalls their early interactions, stating, "I entered the seminary, and he was finishing the academy. We all loved him. He was still just Alexei Nozdrin — but he had such amazing character..."
After being tonsured as a monk under the name Iliyan in 1966, Iliy held various clerical positions, including serving at the Pantelimonov Monastery on Mount Athos and later at the Pskovo-Pechersky Monastery for ten years. His pivotal moment came in the late 1980s when he was sent to the Optina Pustyn Monastery, which was undergoing restoration after decades of closure. Here, Iliy revitalized the ancient tradition of elder monastic service for 20 years.
His dedication did not go unrecognized. By 2009, Iliy was elected as the confessor of Patriarch Kirill. Just months later, he was elevated to the rank of Schema-Archimandrite, solidifying his status within the church hierarchy. This leadership role involved guiding both the clergy and the congregation at Optina Pustyn, setting him apart as a respected elder.
Over the years, Father Iliy's health became increasingly precarious. Reports surfaced detailing his struggle with illness, including a serious battle with COVID-19 during the summer of 2021. Despite these challenges, he remained devoted to his community, actively engaging with worshippers and fellow clerics.
The past spring, Patriarch Kirill blessed Iliy’s continued ministry at the monastery, reaffirming Iliy's status as one of the key figures within the Russian Orthodox Church. His passing marks the end of a significant chapter for the Optina Pustyn Monastery, which he helped to flourish.
Reflecting on his life and legacy, the community remembers Iliy not only as a confessor but as a beacon of resilience and spirituality. The clergy and laypeople alike have shared their sentiments of loss, celebrating the life of one who dedicated himself to service and showed exemplary character throughout his years of ministry. He will undoubtedly be remembered through the impact he made on countless lives.
Schema-Archimandrite Iliy's contributions to the revival of Optina Pustyn Monastery are heralded as cornerstone achievements, encapsulating the spirit and mission of his lifelong vocation. His teachings and guidance bear significance for those who seek wisdom and solace within their faith. The coming weeks will likely see memorials and prayers offered for the late confessor as his legacy continues to inspire both current and future generations within the church.