Magnificent bell ringing, folk singing, and more than 80 wooden structures rightfully place Kizhi Island on the UNESCO World Heritage list. Observe one of Karelia’s master bell-ringers doing what he does best! Video courtesy: www.kizhi.karelia.ru YT/КижиМузей | Future Russia

WHY DO CHURCH BELLS RING? Bells are an indispensable part of an Orthodox church. In The Order for the Blessing of a Bell, it is written: "all who hear its sound, whether by day or by night, shall be roused to the glorification of His holy name." The ringing of church bells serves the following purposes: 1. To call the faithful to worship, 2. To express the triumph of the Church and its divine services, 3. To announce to those outside the church the timing of especially significant moments during