The article deals with the features of the relations of the state and the old believers of the belokrinitsky hierarchy in the Stalingrad (Volgograd) region in 1954-1964. It is proved that the closure of the old believers’ communities occurred due to the decline of Church life in them. The main aspects of the church life of old believers are described. It is found out that the atheistic propaganda during this period did not lead to the elimination of old believers in the region.