Commemorations are under way in Ukraine, which is marking the 1,025th anniversary of the conversion to Christianity of Kievan Rus, the medieval Slavic state that laid the Orthodox foundations for modern-day Russia, Belarus, and Ukraine. Top Orthodox Christian clergy from around the world have also gathered in the Ukrainian capital to participate in a special prayer service and other religious events. (13 PHOTOS)
Ukraine Commemorates Kievan Rus Anniversary
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Russian President Vladimir Putin kisses an icon during a service and ceremony in Kyiv on July 27 to celebrate the 1,025th anniversary of Christianity in Ukraine, Belarus, and Russia.
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Kyiv Metropolitan Filaret also took part in the ceremonies.
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Ukrainian President Viktor Yanukovych takes part in the opening of an exhibition marking the 1,025th anniversary of the baptism of Kievan Rus on July 26.
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Russian President Vladimir Putin (left) and Ukrainian President Viktor Yanukovych cross themselves during a service and an official ceremony in Kyiv.
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Russia President Vladimir Putin in Kyiv on July 27
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Orthodox believers wait in line to kiss an icon during the service and a ceremony in Kyiv.
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Ukrainian President Viktor Yanukovych crosses himself in front of an icon during a service and ceremony in Kyiv on July 27.
