Russian Churches Adopt Smart Bell-Ringing Systems
New digital systems automate the centuries-old art of church bell ringing while preserving its authenticity.
Churches across Russia are beginning to install intelligent bell-ringing systems. The technology not only automates the process but also preserves the traditional sound by using canonical peals composed by professional bell-ringers.
Father Alexander Evdokimov, rector of the Church of the Icon of the Mother of God “Mind-raising” in Orenburg, explained how modern tech supports church life:
The system, often called an “electronic bell-ringer,” mimics the actions of a person. A rope is attached to each clapper and connected to an electric motor. When commanded by a control unit, the motor tightens the rope, causing the clapper to strike the bell and produce a pure, resonant sound—all managed by a digital module.
The system is already operating in Orenburg. It uses a unique library of canonical peals compiled by Ivan Sukhanov, a renowned bell-ringer of the Transfiguration Cathedral in St. Petersburg and a composer. He combined the best traditions from across Russia. The device stores up to 90 melodies for all types of services, from festive to everyday.
Innovation here is not about replacing tradition but sustaining it—making the church both modern and an accessible center of spiritual life.
