In the 90s there were man stories of spooky spiritualism, witchcraft and shamanism in Russia. Russians seemed to believe in just about anything supernatural without much discernment - at least if the tabloids were to be believed.
I think that's not just Russian trouble. Everywhere and at all times people were ready to believe in miracles. Not all people of course, but those who need them, for whom that was a last chance to live, terminally ill for example. And near them always were swindlers who used their despair. Some people are so dissatisfied with their lives, that also ready to go for those who promise them happiness or wealth.