The Local Council of the Orthodox Russian Church of 1917-1918 was preceded by a large preparatory work, which lasted for almost a decade and a half. The best scientific forces of that time were involved in this work, including professors of spiritual and educational institutions, outstanding theologians, church historians, representatives of the entire Completeness of the Orthodox Church - bishops, clergy and laity. The beginning of the preparation of the Council is connected with the Decree of Emperor Nicholas II of December 12, 1904 on the plans for improving the state order. In February-March 1905, the Committee of Ministers, headed by S. Yu. Witte, considered general issues of religious tolerance and the issue of those who fell away from the Orthodox faith, and also worked out the main provisions on the rights of Old Believers and sectarians.