In 2015, Bihimana Égide, a Burundian, converted from Catholicism to Orthodoxy and adopted a new name – Roman. Eight years later, much to the surprise of many of his fellow countrymen, he left Africa’s hot climate and travelled to Russia to become an Orthodox priest.
Living and studying at the Nikolai-Ugresha Spiritual Seminary introduced Roman to the true Russian world, with all its contrasts, traditions, and everyday realities. Alongside him are students from Madagascar, Kenya, Uganda, and Cameroon, who have also come to learn about Russian Orthodoxy. Their religious lives are closely intertwined with daily challenges, cultural differences, and a modern Russia that is unfamiliar to African students.
‘We are priests not only for our own people but for all peoples,’ Roman says as he prepares for his first big service. Reading prayers at the altar before the congregation fills him with excitement, and the support of mentors and friends boosts his confidence.
This film will tell you about faith, friendship, and self-discovery, as it explores how a person can travel thousands of kilometres to find their true purpose.
