In Las Vegas, the only Russian Orthodox church is located in a small and unremarkable building, but inside, both the decor and the atmosphere are impressive. Bishop Nikolai (Soraych), of Serbian origin, has spent many years building and leading Serbian Orthodox churches, but he admits that the Russian tradition is closer to him. Bishop Nikolai notes that Serbs love their church, but do not attend it as actively as Russians do. He says that Russians are very loyal to their tradition, and this resonates with him. Although he is considered strict, the Russian church itself is strict, the strictest among the Orthodox, as it adheres closely to its rules. "My Russians," he calls his parishioners. To acquire land for the church, he took out a loan against his house. There is space for Sunday classes and meals, and nearby is a former barn that parishioners have converted for cultural events, although it is still called the "barn." Christmas performances and concerts featuring local talents have been held here during Maslenitsa. Parish life here is active and vibrant.