Boskin S. M. Autobiographical notes

Preparation for publication, introductory article, notes by deacon Sergiy Panteleev

Abstract

This is a publication of autobiographical notes belonging to Protodeacon Sergius Boskin, who is primarily known for his personal participation in the re-opening of the Trinity Laura of St. Sergius in 1946, which was closed down by the Bolsheviks in 1919. Among other things he was the founder of the newly-opened Laura’s choir and served as is choir director. As a professional artist, Father Sergius was also engaged in the restoration of the monastery churches. In 1961, under pressure from the Soviet authorities he had to abandon his work at the Laura. Several years later he was ordained a deacon and served, for many more years, at the Church of St. Elias the Prophet (Il’inskii Church) in Zagorsk. A bright and gifted personality, he was known and loved by many. However the story of his life is still largely unknown, and biographers differ in opinion with respect to many of its periods. Therefore, the publication of autobiographical notes of Father Sergius, which were discovered in the family archive of his daughter, will be of value to all readers interested in his life and, generally, in the history of the Trinity Laura of St. Sergius.