The Inquirer — 1954 to 1958

Editorial by Koozma J. Tarasoff — Freedom of thought is essential to growth and development

Editorial by Koozma J. Tarasoff and Nick W. Sherstobitoff — It is our hope that this periodical will give group expression to Doukhobor young people, act as a clearing house for exchange of ideas, and be a bond of unity among its readers.

Information by Frances Horkoff — Foresees the seeds of peace being nurtured and transplanted from continent to continent.

Information — Correspondence course in Russian promoted at U of Sask.

Report by Koozma J. Tarasoff — Part one of 1952 report deals with contemporary situation.

Proceedings — A brief resume of the meeting plus resolutions.

Report by Peggy Perverzeff — Report of the Saskatoon Group of Doukhobor students and others on their program of better understanding themselves so as promote a deeper feeling of brotherhood and human kindness.

Editorial by Koozma J. Tarasoff — Beware of our emotions when we disagree with those people who disagree with us.

Opinion by Steve S. Faminow — While making fantastic scientific advances, humanity has sunk to a new low in spiritual understanding and attainment of the brotherhood of man. There exists a spiritual chaos.

Opinion by J. I. Pereverseff — I am glad to welcome the appearance of the Doukhobor Inquirer. It is long overdue. There has been a crying need for such a medium among our young people for a long, long time…

Information by Report by RCMP April 30, 1953 — The twelve months just concluded have been a period of continued uneasiness in our relations with the Sons of Freedom … heightened during the past four months by an increasing number of acts of incendiarism and blasting.

Report by H. B. Hawthorn, editor — Summary of second part by Koozma J. Tarasoff on: Backgrounds of the problems and recommendations and the economic history of the Doukhobors.

Opinion by Eli A. Popoff — These quotations from English poets are not exactly applicable to us as Pacifists, but it is the material that we mostly have at hand, and what we are familiar with. It was written in its time to inspire a people who were lagging or deteriorating, to resurrect and carry on a started cause…

Letters to the Editor by William A. Soukoreff — I am proud that the youth of Saskatchewan Doukhobors have decided to publish a newspaper as it is not only timely, but long overdue…

Letters to the Editor by Peter S. Faminow — There is a Spanish proverb: Truth marries nobody. Only once in a while do we catch a trace of her delicate perfume, and long to know where she lives

Information — An idea for the 1954 convention of the Union of Young Doukhobors of Canada

Information by CCCO — Prepared by the Central Committee for COs of Philadelphia

Editorial by Koozma J. Tarasoff — Become educated so as not to become prey to exploitation.

Information by Nick N. Kalmakoff — The response of The Inquirer 'is encouraging beyond our expectations'.

Letters to the Editor by Peter N. Malov — The news of publishing a new Doukhobor Journal was highly disturbing and exciting to my intellect….Will it live up to the basic demand of truth, or will it succumb to the reactionary bliss, as previous heralders have ended?'

Letters by V. V. Athalye — We as pacifists are to shoulder new and newer responsibilities….We do not desire to side politically either (with) the Russian group of nations or the American one. We have been supporting and helping every move for world peace….What will your friends do to dissuade Canada form providing instruments of death to warring countries?'

Information by Social Science Encyclopedia — The conscientious objector has always stood as a most difficult challenger of ...

Information by CCCO — Classic questions asked to conscientious objectors to war.

Information by John A. Symonds — Fixed ideas of the ascetic medieval church restricted human development.

News From BC by Michael M. Tomilin — Report on the choir and language program in the Kootenays.

Letters to the Editor by  Pete C. Maloff — And now, my friends, you The Union of Young Doukhobors of Saskatoon district. It seems to me that none of you know what Doukhobor means. How could you all even discuss such things as smoking, drinking, hunting, eating meat, etc.'

Information by CCCO — Prepared by the Central Committee for COs of Philadelphia

Letters to the Editor by Walter J. Lebedeff — A publication from the Doukhobor "intelligentsia" of the prairies has been expected, because you have the mental and educational capabilities to carry on the work commenced. I share your vision that education can do a lot to implement …Doukhoborism … .'

Report by Koozma J. Tarasoff — This summary reviews the economic situation amongst the Doukhobors in BC, exemption from military service, work in the Kootenays, and the problem of distribution and ownership of land.

Column by Peter S. Faminow — The author, a Vancouver lawyer, plays word games about 'the thing speaks for itself'.

Information by Peter S. Faminow — Continued from the last issue, the article deals with dues, government, meetings, quorum, and elections.

Editorial by Koozma J. Tarasoff — Confidence in science is due to its rigor in searching for evidence that is accurate, universal and repeatable.

Opinion by Alec Postnikoff — As Doukhobors we have failed to preserve the legacy of our ancestors.

Information by Peter S. Faminow — Continued from last issue, it deals with elections, fiscal year, committees and groups, banking and signing officers, order of business, amendments.

Book Review by Peter S. Bludoff — The reviewer criticizes the authors for simplistic cure-all in focusing on the zealots at the expense of the Doukhobors. Accuracy of data questioned.

Minutes — These unofficial Minutes, part one, include comments by Mr. McKenzie, Gordon Wismer, Harry B. Hawthorn, Colonel Mead, Emmett Gulley, Mr. Shirras, Dr. Wright, Mr. Thaine, and Mr. Stevens. Col. Mead of the RCMP said that actions against the zealots and Doukhobors is deeper than a police problem. It was a spiritual problem. This is a job for 'mental scientists'.

Opinion by Koozma J. Tarasoff — If man, the most destructive creature on earth, is to survive, he must wake up and seek a peaceful solution or else be doomed.

Opinion by Joe N. Fofanoff — The author, a Saskatchewan educator, raises the question of what constitutes being a Doukhobor. What is our attitude to government and education, as well as to pacifism and militarism? In facing the threat to our civilization by the dreaded atomic bomb and other weapons of mass destruction, do we wake, or do we sleep?

Opinion by Nick W. Sherstobitoff — The author, coeditor, salutes the sponsors and all participants of the annual Youth Festival in BC, 'a milestone on the road to progress'.

Editorial by Koozma J. Tarasoff — An invitation to attend the combined conventions of the Union of Doukhobors of Canada and the Union of Young Doukhobors to be held in Lundbreck, Alberta July 4-5.

News From BC by Michael M. Tomilin — Report on the 7th annual Youth Festival of the USCC held in Grand Forks and Castlegar, BC in May. Youth groups from 24 different communities gathering with song and speeches, many with full colourful costumes. No adjudicators and no competition, but cultural preservation was the goal.

Information by Koozma J. Tarasoff — Report on a short tour by Soviet performing artists across Canada. Purpose of cultural exchanges: to develop understanding across boundaries.

Opinion by Nick Verigin — This Alberta Doukhobor teacher agrees with modern education, but condemns taking zealot children from their parents and forcing them to receive formal education in the New Denver institution.

Opinion by Koozma J. Tarasoff — The coeditor highlights the importance of this convention with possible resolutions on: constitution, cultural and educational programs, scholarships as incentives, Man and Woman of the Year, Seniors Homes, Doukhobor Institute, youth movement, UN, problems in BC, and The Inquirer.

   Humour by Peter S. Faminow — Proposed name: The Union of Young Doukhobors of Canada.

Opinion by Peter S. Faminow — Oracle of the Kootenays says: 'There are more fools in Canadian Universities than in any other schools.'

Minutes — This is lengthy treatise with speeches by John J. Verigin, Mr. Abrosimoff and Stefan Sorokin with special focus on the zealot 

Report by Koozma J. Tarasoff — This summary deals with the findings of Claudia Lewis on early childhood training and its effect on personality characteristics and psychological problems.

Editorial by Nick W. Sherstobitoff — Coeditor explains the purpose of organizations coming together for the pursuit of common interests.

Opinion by Koozma J. Tarasoff — The coeditor stresses that the search for truth is important no matter what the risk. The journal could promote cultural, educational and religious activities so as to encourage a balance of body, mind and spirit. Freedom of expression should encourage a world view thought.

Opinion by Frances Horkoff — A report of the youth meeting held May 30, 1954, the Executive presents a Preamble of the Constitution of the Union of Young Doukhobors to be brought forward at the Convention of the Union of Doukhobors of Canada July 4-5, The Preamble emphasizes that pacifism and nonviolent conflict resolution remain central to the aims of youth.

Opinion by Andrew P. Gleboff — The President of the Union of Youth Doukhobors sends a message of goodwill to the delegates. States that the Spirit of God is present in the soul of man and directs him from within. We must uphold the legacy of our ancestors.

Column by Peter S. Faminow — The author speaks about Lundbreck, Alberta, the site of the Doukhobor convention, and the place where he was born. The locals reveal an example of cooperative living.

Opinion by Frances Horkoff — As secretary of the Union of Young Doukhobors, the author seeks to stir up interest and awaken the possibilities of our young people.

Information by Andrew P. Gleboff — Proposed agenda of the Doukhobor youth convention July 4-5, 1954 in Lundbreck, Alberta.

Interview by Koozma J. Tarasoff — Nine Doukhobor delegates visited Russia at the invitation of the Slavic Committee (USSR) and the cultural organization of the 300 year union of Russia with Ukraine. Met Russian Doukhobor student William M. Chutskov as well as Vladimir V. Chertkov whose father helped Doukhobors migrate to Canada in 1899. Sees value of cultural exchanges as a way to build bridges of understanding and peace.

Report by Koozma J. Tarasoff — Alfred Shulman, psychiatrist, sees passivity as a problem. Presents nine recommendations. Recommends a middle path.

Opinion by Koozma J. Tarasoff — The traditional peace holiday of June 29th marks the day that Russian Doukhobors burnt their firearms in 1895. This event is a reminder that violence to our fellow beings is no solution for universal friendship and happiness.

Minutes — In this report, speakers include Anton Kalesnikoff, Stefan Sorokin, Col. Mead, Mr. Mackenzie, Bill Markin, Joe Podovinikoff, Mr. Stevens, John J. Verigin, Mr. Wright, Mr. Thaine, and Mr. Kolodinin. The focus is on curtailing burnings and bombings in the Kootenays. One of the solutions discussed was relocation of zealots. The political state's claim to absolute authority over its citizens. Conscientious objection is itself simply a special case under nonconformity, and heresy is another aspect of the same thing.

Information — The excerpt comes from a Constitution of Union of Young Doukhobors as introduced at a convention in Blaine Lake, Sask. June 28-29, 1952.

Humour by Peter S. Faminow — A spoof on the zealot leader S. S. Sorokin.

Poetry Corner by Alec Postnikoff — Poor grey eyes.

Editorial by  Koozma J. Tarasoff — An evaluation and critique of the convention proceedings of the Union of Doukhobors of Canada in Lundbreck, Alberta

Greetings by Various delegates — Goodwill wishes to the success of the 6th convention of the UDC.

News From Alberta by Koozma J. Tarasoff — One of the actions decided upon was to select the most important sections of the Doukhobor Book of Life and translate them into the English language. A radio program was also considered to dispel some of the misconceptions of the Doukhobors in the wider world.

Humour by Peter S. Faminow — Dasha has crashed the Doukhobor barrier.

Interview by Koozma J. Tarasoff — Performing in both Russian and English languages, Paul has appeared on radio, concerts, festival, banquets, and in churches. Suggests Canada-wide choir tours to revive the Doukhobor movement.

Letters to the Editor by Simeon F. Reibin — The former private secretary of Peter V. Verigin condemns the practice of worshipping leaders as if they were bestowed the status of Saints and Semi-Gods. Urges The Inquirer to disseminate truth and not bow to sectarian ignorance. Sees Doukhobors as vanguards to Pacifists and Iconoclasts.

Poetry Corner by Peter S. Faminow — The hamlet is always a place of drab distaste and boredom, yet it is most rich, most beautiful, and most welcome.

Opinion by Peter S. Bludoff — The clash of the Old Guard with the new highlights the strain of creeping disintegration and nonconformist inquiry.

Minutes — Speakers include Stefan S. Sorokin, Miss Leigh, Stuart Jamieson, Hugh Herbison, Mr Gower, John J. Verigin and Joe Podovinikoff. The group is dealing with continuing violence in the Kootenays of British Columbia. Zealot motives and behaviour are discussed.

Information by Nick W. Sherstobitoff — Due to pressure of studies at University of Saskatchewan, Nick W. Sherstobitoff steps down as co-editor, leaving his colleague Koozma as editor.

Information —     The proposed pamphlet would help dispel misconceptions between Doukhobors and fanatics.

Report by Koozma J. Tarasoff — William G. Dixon, Professor of Social Work, analyzes the relationship between government and the Doukhobors of BC. Cites the arguments against the extension of the franchise to the Doukhobors.

Editorial by Koozma J. Tarasoff — There is no such thing as a perfect or master race.

Report by Koozma J. Tarasoff — At this first Leadership Conference for young adults in inter-group relations, held in Banff, Alberta, August 22-28, one of the main resource persons was Dr. Harry B. Hawthorn of UBC. Delegates of various racial, religious, cultural and other groups from the three western provinces discussed such questions as the right to language, group culture and group prejudices. Hawthorn: Compromise is an honourable word in Canada, and describes the honest effort to satisfy conflicting claims.

Advertisement — The USCC Youth Choir of Grand Forks, BC visited the prairie provinces in 1951 and has recorded a vinyl record of hymns and songs in the Russian language.

Questionnaire response by Steve S. Faminow — An Alberta educator says that the acceptance of education implies the acceptance of both continuity and change..

Questionnaire response by Nick Laktin, L. S. Kalmakoff — Let other people use music, but Doukhobors should not include it with theirs.

Questionnaire response by Joe N. Fofanoff — A Saskatchewan teacher contends that a culture has a background of tradition, not something dreamed up overnight.

Questionnaire response by Peter S. Bludoff — This Blaine Lake (Sask.) thinker says that Doukhobor culture is elusive and intangible and this has allowed them to survive the attacks of temporal and church authorities. However, anything that contributes to a greater expression and appreciation of our being is acceptable.

Questionnaire response by Walter P. Strukoff — Modernization of our culture is good, but only if it is appropriate. But dancing it out, says this Executive member of the UDC.

Questionnaire response by Nellie Fomenoff — This Union of Youth member of the USCC agrees with adding music to our songs.

Questionnaire response by Frances Horkoff — Our culture needs to be modernized if we want our young people to stay with it.

Questionnaire response by Paul Koftinoff — Doukhobors would not be Doukhobors if they had musical accompaniment with their singing, just as Doukhobors would not be Doukhobors if they had guns.

Questionnaire response by Nick A. Popoff — I think that we should not modernize our culture. Doukhobors have to be different — that is why he is called a Doukhobor. We are modern a present. All we need is to culture it more. We are leaders, not followers.

Questionnaire response by Michael M. Tomilin — Doukhobor culture is very similar to others, yet it is different, and not a toy to play with. Disagrees with having singing accompanied with music in this rare culture.

Questionnaire response by Paul Dergousoff — Let us not try to modernize our culture, but preserve our old principles and ideals for which our forefathers suffered some three hundred years back.

Letters by Nick N. Kalmakoff, Stanley J. Petroff — The UDC executive supports the petition to prohibit the production and testing of atomic and hydrogen weapons.

Minutes — Three resolutions: reduce nudity infraction to six months; rescind arson crimes where feasible; set up process of rehabilitation. Former Member of Parliament Mr. Stevens adopts the first, but not the other two.

Letters to the Editor by Deanna Boulanoff — Impressed by the trio William Salin, Fred Zibin and Frank Konkin.

Letters to the Editor by W. J. Cazakoff — I greet The Doukhobor Inquirer and hope and trust that it will illuminate humanitarian ideals and uphold the truth in the world. Translated from Russian.

Letters to the Editor by William F. Chutskoff — The author, resident of Grand Forks, BC, criticizes the journal for publishing S.F. Reibin's critique of Doukhobor leaders. You will not receive moral and financial support if you continue to publish such blasphemous materials.

Letters by Koozma J. Tarasoff — Leaders without support of the people would amount to nothing. Prophesy is a figment of ones imagination. Ritual is not important, but behaviour is. Truth is relative and depends on the point of view.

Report by Koozma J. Tarasoff — William G. Dixon, Professor of Social Work, analyzes public administration and the Doukhobor community, while Charles A. Rowles, Associate Professor of Soils, UBC, looks on soil, agriculture and rehabilitation. Any person who commits violence loses his conscientious objectors status.

Poetry Corner by Edna Laxer — Stop war and you stop the horror of killing children (obviously an reference to the slaughter in Vietnam).

Poetry Corner by Frances Horkoff — A plea to keep this country free from discrimination, fear and need.

Humour by Peter S. Faminow — A spoof on name changes of the zealots.

Editorial by Koozma J. Tarasoff — Many wars and disputes in the world have been fought because men failed to understand one another. More knowledge is needed to widen one's outlook along with a spirit of working together.

Letters to the Editor by Andrew P. Gleboff — Author resigns as president of the Union of Young Doukhobors because he is moving to work in northern Alberta. He says: It is interesting how much an audience can be attracted by a few courageous souls who have the fortitude to start something different.

Letters to the Editor by John N. Wasilenkoff — Music just would not go with our singing.

Letters to the Editor by Sam J. Samaroden — Music should not accompany Doukhobor singing..

Letters to the Editor by George Popoff — This Vancouver Doukhobor disputes the notion that Canadian Doukhobors had they been in the USSR during World War II would have taken up arms. Response: This statement I believe to be false. Doukhobors are realists and believe that Love and Truth will eventually triumph over evil. Furthermore: Doukhobors are recognized by their deeds, not by their birth.

Letters to the Editor by John W. Cazakoff — This interior BC Doukhobor argues that migration to Russia is a valid option.

Letters to the Editor by Mrs. R. Kinakin — This Saskatchewan native suggests The Inquirer publish a series of stories for ages 12 to 17 for the purpose of enticing their interest.

Letters to the Editor by William F. Chutskoff — I do not agree with the editor that Doukhoborism is universal and has no language barriers. Christianity and pacifism, yes. But Doukhoborism belongs solely to the Doukhobors, and if the Russian language is lost, Doukhoborism will dissolve and disintegrate with it.

Letters to the Editor by Anton Kalesnikoff— Contends Spiritual Leaders revived and uplifted their followers. Claims Stefan S. Sorokin was a born leader, not an imposter.

Editor's Note by Koozma J. Tarasoff — Commenting on Anton Kalesnikoff's letter, we are not trying to disillusion him. Our opinion is that Sorokin did not come but was sent. Our study reveals that their leader Sorokin is just a synthetic product from the sociological laboratories designed to change the culture matrix of their primitive society. Doukhobors do not believe in sorcery or sorcerers.

Poetry Corner byKoozma J. Tarasoff — The stimulus of the heart and the mind are important ingredients for success.

Information — A tribute to young Johnnie Sirota a farmer in Asquith, Sask., in being awarded the most gentlemanly player in the Saskatoon and District Junior Baseball League.

Opinion by Florence S. Faminow — Let our visions for the future be clear and progressive. We are not attempting to change that which is good. We are striving to develop an open mind, broaden our knowledge, not in quantity but in quality and practice what we preach. It even takes education to do this.

Minutes — Participants in this secret discussi