Temperatures as low as minus 41C did not deter Russians immersing themselves as medics stood ready to offer help.
One month after criminal proceedings launched into 'blasphemous' Tannhauser, officials rule production did not break any laws.
Armed man guns down a nun and worshiper during prayers on Sunday.
Despite warnings of severe temperatures, hundreds of thousands of Russians take ice dips in an annual ritual marking Christ’s baptism in the River Jordan.
Spaso-Zashiverskaya has survived wars, permafrost, and a smallpox outbreak that wiped out its congregation.
Russian government denies removal of director of Opera and Ballet Theatre was censorship.
Russia marks Orthodox Christmas Day on 7 January according to the Julian calendar (and for some this is also a time for fortune telling).
A production of Wagner's opera 'Tannhauser' seen as offending devout Orthodox believers.
From 'fireworks' made from nothing more than hot water in minus 50C, to surfing in the Pacific, this is the New Year on our doorstep.
From the Pacific in the east, to the Urals in the west, hardy Russians display their religious feelings - and bravery.