The Russian community was officially formed in Benin on January 20, 1988. Its goal was to unite all Russian speakers for joint leisure activities and to organize celebrations such as Christmas, Easter, and New Year for the children of compatriots. Sports events and classes for teaching children the Russian language and introducing them to the culture are also held.

Currently, there are five Orthodox parishes and one women's monastery in the country. It is located near the Church of Saint Catherine in the capital, Porto-Novo. The monastery was built with the funds of Mother Maria-Agniya, who sold her house to construct the church here. This is the only fully built Orthodox church in Benin. The 85-year-old Mother Maria-Agniya remains the only resident of the monastery.