The Russian Orthodox Church is a unique religion with many centuries of traditions and practices, but also political difficulties. It managed to survive both the Tsarist era and 1917’s brief restoration, but suffered persecution under communism.
Despite these tensions, the Russian Church and state have an intimate partnership. When state policy serves ecclesiastical objectives, these two entities come together in support of one another.
Table of Contents
1. Traditions
The Russian Orthodox Church is one of the largest autocephalous or self-governing Eastern Orthodox churches. It has an intricate power structure comprised of bishops, monks, priests, archbishops and cardinals.
The ROC has endured persecution throughout its history, yet has managed to persevere despite these attacks and remain successful today. This is due to its traditions and spirituality which are founded in Scripture rather than human authority.
Furthermore, the Roman Catholic Church has nurtured numerous lay organizations dedicated to philanthropic and social work. These include brotherhoods, religious schools and associations.
These groups, often led by priests, have been reinvigorating a tradition of religious education and community service that dates back to the Middle Ages. They have an influential presence in Russia and shape social and political policy with great force.
2. Science
The Russian Orthodox Church views science as an instrument to explain God’s creation. Additionally, they believe science is crucial in grasping our environment.
In the early days of Soviet Russia, there was intense tension between church and state – especially after Soviet authorities took control of all lands previously held by ROC. As a result, the Church lost much of its power and influence.
As such, the church recognized a need to deepen its connection with science.
One way the Russian Orthodox church recognized this was by supporting science-based initiatives. This marked a crucial turning point in its evolution as it gave them greater chances at winning back the government’s trust.
3. Abortion
Orthodox Christians take seriously the religious and moral concern over abortion. Patriarch Kirill of Russia recently signed a petition that calls for the total ban on abortion in Russia.
The church condemns abortion as murder and an insult to life’s sanctity. They hold that human beings are created in God’s image from conception on, so their destruction of a human being should be seen as an offense against this belief system.
However, the Orthodox Church also recognizes that women in overpopulated countries often feel pressured into having children. When this occurs, it may seem natural for some people to see abortion as a solution to the issue.
In order to investigate this issue further, a framing analysis is conducted based on statements taken from Russian Orthodox online media that advocate for regulation of access to abortion. Typologies developed from prior research in morality policy and church-state relations in Russia provide insights into this framing analysis.
4. Politics
The Russian Orthodox church has long fostered relationships with the Russian government to shape policy and culture within Russia. This has included various initiatives such as property restitution, religious education in public schools, and conservative groups within the church itself.
In the post-Soviet era, there have been significant developments in the relationship between government and religion. These include increased visibility, more active advocacy, and an active activist class.
These changes in Russian society reflect the ascendency of Orthodoxy. With over half the population being Orthodox and an abundance of highly educated religious scholars, Orthodoxy has become a force to be reckoned with.
As such, the Russian Orthodox church has gained prominence within Russia’s religious landscape. Furthermore, their political involvement has grown considerably over the past decade.
