31 thousand pilgrims set out on the Velikoretsky cross procession: a report from the first halt.

      This year, the pilgrimage, according to authorities, gathered about 31 thousand participants. This is noticeably more than last year — then, according to the organizers, there were 21 thousand. The mood is upbeat despite the early rise and the upcoming 150 kilometers of the journey. The weather was favorable — instead of the usual heat, pilgrims were greeted by a cool breeze, clear skies, and bright, but not scorching, sunshine. The column stretched for kilometers. The tempo was set by the choir of the Assumption Cathedral. They walked ahead — between the icon, the banner group, and the main column of believers. "The main thing is to catch the rhythm; then it's much easier to walk," shared experienced participants. The column stretched for several kilometers: when the first participants were already approaching the rest stop, the end of the column was still winding through the streets of Kirov. Along with the participants of the procession, an ambulance and police cars followed, with some police officers walking in the crowd. Security and control were provided by the Rosgvardiya officers and representatives of the local Cossacks, who formed a tight chain, preventing onlookers from running onto the roadway. This year, for the first time, the Russian community also participated in the security measures: its representatives were both in the crowd among the pilgrims and among those who were working. Notable figures in the general column Among the ordinary people in the crowd were also local "VIPs." Former governor Nikita Belykh was spotted — he also participated in the pilgrimage last year. The column included the regional Minister of Internal Policy Stanislav Kurshakov, Chairman of the Legislative Assembly Roman Beresnev, and Deputy Andrei Berezin. Entrepreneur Bagir Sharifov walked ahead with the clergy. Governor Alexander Sokolov traditionally joined Metropolitan Mark of Vyatka and Slobodsky at the head of the column. This year, it is presumed that the head of the Kirov administration Vyacheslav Simakov did not participate — at least he was not seen in his "designated spot" next to the governor. They reached Makary faster than expected The first stage went smoothly and without noticeable hitches. The procession reached Makary even a bit earlier than planned: the target was 11:30, but the pilgrims arrived 15–20 minutes ahead of schedule. At the rest area, many headed to the gates of the Trinity Monastery, where Metropolitan Mark conducted a prayer service, but most immediately began to settle on the glade and nearby territory — to catch their breath and prepare for the next stage. Many participants admitted that they planned to walk only to Makary. Even more said they would "see off" the column to Bobino and then return home. Those who walk to the end will need to arrive in Bobino around 18:30 and stay for the first overnight stop. Ahead of them are still several days of walking to the village of Velikoretskoe and back. "Everyone walks with their own purpose": what pilgrims say We managed to talk to several participants of the procession, although most were not ready for conversations and questions — many had already been on the road for several days, were tired, and did not particularly want to communicate or, especially, take photos. "I came to thank God for what I have," shared one of the pilgrims. A man nearby admitted that his motivation was similar: "Yes, the same story." Young people, both locals from Kirov, intend to accompany the pilgrims to the first overnight stop and then return home. Pilgrims from the Cherepovets diocese said they have been walking for several times. When asked what advice they would give to those who are just planning to go, they replied: "Everyone walks with their own purpose, and there is no specific advice or recommendation. Each person has decided for themselves why they are going and what they need from it." Despite the different moods — some are upbeat, some walk calmly and steadily — happiness can be seen in everyone's eyes for participating in such an event. The organization of the first stage seemed more than acceptable. For those who walk to the end, we can only wish good luck and more faith in themselves and God.