Russian Orthodox Church stakes out assertive role on social issues

Thu, 11 Oct 2012 09:00:00 -0500

Russia's Orthodox Church is trying to become more relevant in Russian society. Though some 70 percent of Russians say they believe in the Orthodox Church, less than one percent go to church even once a month.

Diego

Tue, 16 Oct 2012 00:35:11 -0500

"In fact, statistics show that more than 70 percent of Russians consider themselves Orthodox believers. But only one percent go to church even monthly."

Recent statistics show it is much less than that, proportionally even less than Catholics in Brazil (who are in a steep downward trend) or Protestants in the USA (now 48% of Americans,no longer absolute majority).

In 2012, Russian Orthodox believers account for only 41% of the whole population of Russia, numbers hard to achieve even with all Kremlin make-up during Soviet times.

Source:

2012 Survey Maps. (http://c2.kommersant.ru/ISSUES.PHOTO/OGONIOK/2012/034/ogcyhjk2.jpg) Magazine "Ogonek", № 34 (5243), 27/08/2012. Retrieved 24-09-2012.

PRI: Public Radio International

Russian Orthodox Church stakes out assertive role on social issues

Diego