The new church was equipped with six hospital cells for infirm monks. In 1854, an extension was added to the western side. The central part of this extension served as the narthex of the church, where the "unceasing" Psalter was read around the clock in memory of the deceased monks and benefactors of the monastery. In the side parts of the extension, three hospital cells were also arranged. Here, elderly and weak elders found comfort, help, and conditions for spiritual life. The church was simple and modest, just like the elders living nearby. In the early 20th century, the church building was renovated and expanded, and during these years, Elder Anatoly (Potapov) lived in the cells near the church and received pilgrims.

After the 1917 revolution, the Vladimir church, like all the churches of the monastery, was closed. In the post-war period, the church was dismantled to its foundations. From 1989, archaeological research was conducted, which lasted several years and allowed for the discovery of the church's foundation. In 1995, restoration work began, and on October 23, 1998, on the feast day of St. Ambrose of Optina, His Holiness Patriarch Alexy II consecrated the restored church.

Currently, the relics of seven out of fourteen Optina elders rest in the church: Leo, Macarius, Hilarion, Anatoly (Zertsalov), Joseph, Barsanuphius, and Anatoly (Potapov).

In the 2000s, the church was decorated by icon painters of the monastery. Daily, the sacrament of confession is performed here, and a moleben with an akathist to the Optina Elders is served.