Ukraine celebrates the Christianization of Kievan Rus on July 24. The traffic will be restricted on July 24, 27 and 28 because of the events timed to the 1030th anniversary of the Baptism of Kievan Rus-Ukraine. Solemn prayer services and processions will take place in the capital.

The celebration will continue in accordance with the decree of the President of Ukraine from August 8, 2017 "On Measures for the Preparation and Celebration of the 1030th Anniversary of the Baptism of Kyiv Rus-Ukraine." In addition to the solemn prayers, festivities will be held in all districts of the capital. In particular, in the educational and cultural institutions of Kyiv, by the end of the year, thematic educational events will take place: educational hours, conversations, book and photo-exhibitions, conferences, round tables, information halls, thematic shelves, literature reviews, etc.

The role of Prince Vladimir The Great in Kievan Rus Christianization

July 28 is considered the day of Vladimir's death (980-1015), and most baptism most likely took place on August 14 (new style) in 988. This process was long, because the prince had to change religion for the unification of lands and the gaining power.

According to the Tale of Bygone Years, Vladimir had to choose from several variants. The Volga Bulgars offered him to choose Islam, the messengers from Rome - Catholicism, and the Khazar Jews - Judaism.

However, Prince Vladimir chose Orthodoxy. His journey to Constantinople was decisive. In addition, his grandmother - Olga of Kiev - was an Orthodox Christian. She was christened in the capital of Byzantium in 955.

The baptism of Prince Vladimir was held in Chersonesus. Returning to Kyiv, the prince baptized his sons and subjects.

By his order, altars and statues of the ancient gods were destroyed. Mass baptism of the population was held in the Dnieper.

As it was reported earlier, sacred processions and solemn prayers will be held in the capital dedicated to the celebration of 1030 th anniversary of Kievan Rus Christianization. This is why the traffic will be restricted in downtown.

Last year’s religious procession started in Ternopil and Donetsk regions, brought the two groups of believers to enter Kyiv on July 26, meet on July 27 in Kiev at St. Vladimir's Hill, and together with the Orthodox Kyiv citizens and pilgrims proceed to Kyiv-Pechersk Lavra. The expected number was 30 000 participants, however, there were more than 4,500 pilgrims at Volodymyrska Hirka a year ago and around 6 000 people took part in celebration of Baptism of Rus last year. Law enforcers expected a high number of provocations by pro-Russian activists or Kremlin-backed militants, tightening preventive measures, however, there were no serious violations reported.