The formation of the Orenburg diocese and the spread of russian orthodox churches in Western Kazakhstan

This article explores the history of the formation of the Orenburg Diocese and its influence on church life in Western Kazakhstan during the 18th–19th centuries. The study examines the role of administrative and missionary factors in the spread of Orthodoxy, as well as the impact of the Russian Empire’s border policy on ecclesiastical structures. The article provides a systematic overview of the diocese’s development, the reorganization of its boundaries due to administrative changes, the introduction of the vicariate system, and the establishment of church governance. Special attention is paid to the interaction between the Orthodox Church and imperial authorities—both military and civil. The missionary efforts of the diocese and measures against Old Believers are also analyzed. In the second half of the 19th century, the influx of Slavic settlers and the growth of parishes led to territorial expansion and new structural reforms. The research is based on historical sources and archival documents, ensuring empirical validity and scholarly reliability.