The Russian Orthodox Church of Singapore is a beautiful and culturally significant place of worship. This tour offers participants an exclusive entry into the church where the congregation gathers for worship.
Look out for the unique interior design, characterised by a combination of Byzantine and Russian styles, where the walls are adorned with vibrant frescoes depicting biblical scenes, saints, and other religious imagery. These paintings serve to inspire devotion and create a sense of holiness within the space. The colours used are typically rich and symbolic, with gold accents and intricate details.
Another attraction is the extension use of iconostasis, a wall of icons that separates the sanctuary from the rest of the church. The iconostasis is an important element in Russian Orthodox churches and plays a significant role in worship. It usually consists of multiple tiers of icons, depicting various saints, the Virgin Mary, and Christ. The icons are considered windows into the divine and are venerated by the faithful.
Bishop Pitirim Dodenko was born in Odessa, Ukraine, the Summer residence of the Russian Tsars and a major Black Sea port. Pitirim arrived in Singapore in 2003, a layperson without much relationship with religion. In his own words, he got ‘too happy’ in Singapore and, in a rather ironic fashion, began to feel disquieted with his present state. It was during this time that he felt the draw of religion and began to attend the Russian Orthodox Church’s services. In 2020, Pitirim was recommended for promotion to a Bishop. He is now the Bishop of Jakarta and Vicar of the Metropolitanate of Singapore.
Originally from Malmö, Sweden, Priest Philip Calington was raised in a secular environment before developing a deep interest in theology. He pursued his studies in Cyprus and Paris, and eventually found his spiritual home in the Orthodox Church—drawn by its continuity and minimal changes over time. After a period of service in the United States, Priest Philip and his wife travelled through Singapore and Malaysia, where they felt a strong sense of connection. They decided to settle in the region two years ago, and he now serves the Russian Orthodox Christian community in Singapore.
The Russian Orthodox Diocese of Singapore was established in 12 October 2007, after a 2003 tour of Southeast Asia convinced Metropolitan Kirill (now the Patriarch of Moscow, the highest authority in the Russian Orthodox Church) that the Russian diaspora needed a religious community to cohere towards. The Parish Church of the Dormition of the Theotokos was thus established, first at Hillview, then moved in 2014 to the present location at 110 Highland Road. A larger premise is now under construction, and will be on the grounds of a Russian Cultural Centre. The Russian Orthodox community has steadily grown and now boasts a healthy congregation of a few hundred believers.
Tania Wee is a dedicated volunteer with My Community, actively guiding the My Tanjong Pagar tour and Good Morning Geylang Serai walk. She is known for being a helpful and consistent presence across tours, helping participants discover the history, architecture, and communities of these neighbourhoods.
Outside of her volunteer work, Tania is an experienced architect and design leader, with expertise in healthcare and wellness environments. She is also a Fellow of the Singapore Institute of Arbitrators, reflecting her broader professional commitment to design, negotiation, and stewardship of the built environment.
Toh Choon Mei has been a committed volunteer with My Community since 2021, serving as the tour in-charge (IC) for My Tanjong Pagar tour. She played an active role in My Community Festival 2023 and is noted as the IC leading Tanjong Pagar heritage walks.
Working behind the scenes, Toh contributes to tour coordination and volunteer support—helping ensure that cultural tours run smoothly and authentically. Her involvement reflects a sustained dedication to preserving and sharing the local history of Tanjong Pagar.
Participants should be dressed respectfully in smart casual (i.e. collared shirt, long pants and covered shoes). Sleeveless attire, shorts/miniskirts or sandals are strictly not allowed. Participants will be denied entry if they dress inappropriately.
The nearest carpark is at 201-204 Hougang Street 21, Singapore 530204. (Approx. 10 min walk).
My Prayers and Practices
My Prayers and Practices
My Prayers and Practices
My Prayers and Practices
My Prayers and Practices
My Prayers and Practices
