Schema-Archimandrite Iliy (Nozdrin), the esteemed elder and personal confessor of Patriarch Kirill of Moscow and All Russia, passed away late on the night of March 15, 2025, at the age of 94. His death marks the end of an era for many within the Orthodox community, particularly those connected to the historic Optina Pustyn monastery.
Born in the village of Stanovoy Kolodez, located in the Orlovskaya Oblast, Iliy was raised by his mother after losing his father to war injuries during World War II. He completed his secondary education at his local school and pursued higher education at machine-building technical institutions before returning to his calling within the Church.
After starting his theological training at the Saratov Seminary, which closed in 1961, Iliy continued his studies at the Leningrad Seminary and Academy. During this time, he was tonsured as a monk by the noted Metropolitan Nikodim (Rotov), adopting the name Ilian, traditionally associated with one of the 40 martyrs of Sebaste.
His ecclesiastical career was marked by service across various parishes before he entered the Pskov-Pechersky Monastery, where he dedicated ten years to monastic life. Later, following the direction of the Holy Synod, he was sent to serve at the St. Panteleimon Monastery on Mount Athos, guarding its monastic traditions and ensuring the continuation of its connection with the Russian Orthodox Church.
By the late 1980s, Iliy was appointed to guide the Optina Pustyn monastery, which had been shuttered for 65 years. There, he was instrumental in reviving the ancient tradition of eldership, which had long been a hallmark of the monastery's spirituality. His endeavors over the subsequent two decades greatly contributed to the restoration and reputation of the monastery.
On April 4, 2010, during the Paschal celebration, Iliy was elevated to the rank of schema-archimandrite, reflecting the high esteem with which he was held by the Church and its community. His affectionate guidance earned him the title of "our beloved father," as many within the church and local community fondly referred to him.
The news of his passing was solemnly confirmed by the Optina Pustyn monastery through various channels, emphasizing his role as both confessor and revered elder. "Posled'noNoch'yu 15 marta na 94-m godu zhizni oteshil k Gospodu nash dorogoy batyushka skhiarkhimandrit Iliy (Nozdrin), dukhovnik patriarkha Moskovskogo i vseya Rusi," read the announcement, offering prayers for his eternal peace.
His legacy is evident not only within the church but also in the larger community. Vladislav Shapsha, the governor of the region, expressed his condolences, remarking, "V techenie mnogikh let otets Iliy vozrazhdal stareskoe sluzhenie, kotorim vsegda slavilsya monastyr'." This sentiment reflects the deep respect for Iliy's lifelong commitment and contributions to the faith.
Funeral services for Elder Iliy are slated to occur at the Optina Pustyn monastery, where many local residents are expected to pay their respects. Currently, farewells are being held at the Pretechensky skete, and hundreds of Kaluga residents are anticipated to attend these ceremonies to honor his memory.
Iliy was known not only for guiding numerous adherents of the faith but also for his engagements with political figures. Notably, he blessed President Vladimir Putin for his fourth term during the 2018 elections, demonstrating the influential role he held beyond ecclesiastical circles.
The passing of Schema-Archimandrite Iliy resonates as more than just the loss of a religious leader; it is felt as the closing chapter of the stories of many individuals he touched over the years. His remarkable ability to connect with those seeking solace and guidance leaves behind a powerful legacy of love and community spirit.
During this time of mourning, the community is encouraged to reflect on his teachings and the values of compassion he embodied. Ensuring his legacy thrives among the faithful will be pivotal as they gather to commemorate his life during the upcoming funeral proceedings.