Victor Sokolov, Russian-American priest and journalist (b. 1947)

Victor Vladimirovich Sokolov, born on February 21, 1947, was a compelling figure whose life bridged the turbulent political landscape of the Soviet Union and the spiritual path of an Eastern Orthodox priest in America. Known for his brave stance as a Soviet dissident journalist, Sokolov carved out a legacy of defiance against authoritarianism before finding a new calling.

The Dissident Voice: Journalism Under Soviet Rule

In a period when free expression was severely curtailed in the Soviet Union, Victor Sokolov dared to speak truth to power. He penned articles that were sharply critical of the Soviet government, works that could not see the light of day through official channels. Instead, these powerful pieces were clandestinely distributed, often at great personal risk, circulating secretly throughout the Soviet Union and finding their way to audiences abroad. This dangerous work marked him as a notable Soviet dissident journalist, a role that brought both peril and profound purpose in an era defined by ideological struggle.

Exile and the Loss of Citizenship: A High Price for Freedom

The consequences of Sokolov's dissidence were severe. In 1975, he made the significant move to the United States, seeking refuge from the oppressive regime he criticized. However, his break with the Soviet state was formalized and made permanent in a dramatic fashion. On September 7, 1976, by an official decree, an "ukase," from the Presidium of the Supreme Soviet, Victor Sokolov was stripped of his Soviet citizenship. The stated reason was for "activities discrediting the rank of a Soviet citizen," a broad accusation often leveled against those who challenged the state's narrative. This act was not trivial; it placed Sokolov among a very small and infamous group, becoming only the fifth person around that time to be so penalized, alongside the globally renowned dissident author Aleksandr Solzhenitsyn, highlighting the gravity of his perceived transgressions.

A New Calling: The Eastern Orthodox Priesthood

After forging a new life in the United States, Sokolov embarked on a profoundly different path. In 1984, he was ordained to the priesthood, embracing his role as an Eastern Orthodox priest. This marked a significant transition from political activism to spiritual leadership, allowing him to continue serving a community, albeit in a completely different capacity. He lived until March 12, 2006, leaving behind a remarkable story of conviction, transformation, and unwavering spirit.

FAQs About Victor Sokolov

Who was Victor Sokolov?
Victor Sokolov (Russian: Виктор Владимирович Соколов) was a Russian-American individual born in 1947 who was a prominent Soviet dissident journalist and later an Eastern Orthodox priest. He was known for his critical writings against the Soviet government.
What was his role as a dissident?
As a dissident, Victor Sokolov wrote articles that criticized the Soviet government. These articles were distributed clandestinely within the Soviet Union and internationally, challenging the official state narrative.
Why was he stripped of his Soviet citizenship?
After moving to the United States in 1975, Victor Sokolov was stripped of his Soviet citizenship on September 7, 1976, by an ukase (decree) of the Presidium of the Supreme Soviet. The official reason given was for "activities discrediting the rank of a Soviet citizen." This placed him in a rare group of individuals similarly penalized, including Aleksandr Solzhenitsyn.
When did he become a priest?
Victor Sokolov was ordained to the priesthood in 1984, transitioning from his role as a journalist and dissident to an Eastern Orthodox priest.
When did Victor Sokolov die?
Victor Sokolov passed away on March 12, 2006.