Conclusions

Abstract The conclusion discusses the evolution of Patriarch Tikhon’s “deathbed testament” and argues against claims that it was a forgery. It discusses the reasons for Tikhon’s canonization as a saint first by the Church Abroad and then by the Moscow Patriarchate at the end of the Soviet period. The conclusion argues that Tikhon represented a conciliar model of Church leadership, empowering the laity in matters of the Church. This proved decisive when the Soviet leadership sought to decapitate the Church, for the people were able to preserve it and keep it alive. The faithful rejected the reforms of the Renovationists and even held the line on some of Tikhon’s compromises—in turn empowering him to be able to resist the Soviet pressures. Unlike the Church Abroad, Tikhon’s focus was not on political opposition to the Bolsheviks, but rather on spiritual regeneration and reconciliation.