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American Morning

Some Russian Alcoholics Resting Hopes on 'Miracle Icon'

Aired June 21, 2001 - 10:51   ET

THIS IS A RUSH TRANSCRIPT. THIS COPY MAY NOT BE IN ITS FINAL FORM AND MAY BE UPDATED.

THIS IS A RUSH TRANSCRIPT. THIS COPY MAY NOT BE IN ITS FINAL FORM AND MAY BE UPDATED.
DARYN KAGAN, CNN ANCHOR: Turning now to the power of prayer and illness, outside Moscow, Russian alcoholics hope to cure themselves by praying to a so-called "miracle icon."

As our Steve Harrigan now tells us, it's the only hope that most of these people have.

(BEGIN VIDEOTAPE)

STEVE HARRIGAN, CNN CORRESPONDENT (voice-over): The pilgrims arrive each dawn at a woman's monastery just south of Moscow. They pray for release from alcohol. I was in a valley so deep, Olga says, when I think back, my whole body shakes. The object of worship is a 19th century icon which depicts Jesus in a golden cup. Those who recover leave behind whatever gold they have. The icon has drawn thousands of Russians, including a 59-year-old doctor who's given up everything to pray for her brother.

(on camera): For those who don't believe that praying to an icon can cure you from alcoholism, the options in Serpukhov are few.

(voice-over): Doctors say this 43-year-old man has been drinking heavily for more than a month. His one kidney and liver hardly functions. They expect him to die before the end of the day. I'm not against people going to visit the icon, he says. Let them, for god's sake. But most of our patients are in no condition to pray. Many get that way from buying cheap home brewed vodka. This mother of five carries home a plastic two liter bottle. Just steps away from the Serpukhov Monastery, there is no sign of any golden cup, miracle icon or even grace before a meal.

Steve Harrigan, CNN, Serpukhov, Russia.

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