Hegumen Nikodim (Balyasnikov)

Acting Chancellor of the Patriarchal Parishes in the USA

It is a distinct privilege to offer my warmest recommendation for Aleksandr Molodin, whose outstanding contributions to the Orthodox community in the United States deserve the highest recognition.

Aleksandr Molodin is one of the leading experts on the history and architecture of Orthodox churches in North America. His multifaceted efforts to promote the history of Orthodoxy in the New World are highly regarded not only by the clergy and parishioners of the Russian Orthodox Church, but also by those of other Churches in the United States.

As a practicing architect with over twenty years of professional experience, Aleksandr has established himself as one of the premier specialists in Orthodox ecclesiastical architecture in the country. He has dedicated many years to the deep and meticulous study of sacred temple construction, authoring numerous scholarly publications and a fundamental historical work focusing on the life, heritage, and development of Russian Orthodox parishes in the United States.

Beyond his impressive academic and historical achievements, Aleksandr remains deeply committed to pastoral and practical assistance on the ground. He frequently guides parishes through the complex, demanding, and often daunting challenges of church construction. Demonstrating true Christian charity and professional excellence, he is always ready to assist with expert counsel, regularly providing invaluable pro bono professional Project Reviews and strategic advice to communities in need.

Aleksandr’s devotion also extends directly to the everyday lives of the Orthodox faithful across America. His annual Orthodox calendars—featuring his magnificent photography, inspiring words from great clergymen and saints, and carefully detailed feast days and fasting periods—have become an absolute hit. Distributed in thousands of copies each year, they have become a cherished spiritual companion in the homes of countless Orthodox believers.

Aleksandr Molodin uniquely combines the rare qualities of a first-class architect, an erudite scholar, an insightful historian, and an exceptionally reliable partner whose labors truly bring glory to God. I wholeheartedly recommend his expertise, vision, and services to any parish, monastery, or institution seeking to build or preserve the sacred traditions of Orthodox architecture.

In Christ,

Hegumen Nikodim (Balyasnikov) Acting Chancellor of the Patriarchal Parishes in the USA