Not just „rural“ people. Unless „urban“ is limited to Moscow. Where soviet elite had to hide church activities even harder than their counterparts in periphery.

There was an attempt to remove religion in early era, but Stalin put an end to that and brought back Orthodox church. Later there was some lip service and lame attempts, but not that serious. Although party members would still get in trouble for openly celebrating christmas. Which many people did anyway, just privately behind closed curtains.