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Eastern Christianity

Russia introduces mandatory religion class for all 4th graders

Lifestyle & Belief

Russian fourth graders will learn about one of six religions under a new program implemented in that country this school year. Under the new program, lobbied for by the Russian Orthodox Church, parents can choose from six religion or belief systems to learn about.

Russian Orthodox Church stakes out assertive role on social issues

Lifestyle & Belief

Russian band Pussy Riot, convicted of hooliganism, given two-year sentences

Global Politics

Greece a difficult place for followers of non-Orthodox Christian faiths

Lifestyle & Belief

In post-Soviet Russia, a quest to define national identity

Global Politics

A Visit to Zograf Monastery at Mount Athos

There’s an autonomous region in Greece that’s home to the “Holy Mountain.” It’s one of the holiest sites for Orthodox Christians. About 2,000 monks live there. But anyone can visit, as long as they’re male […]

Russia’s New Required Religion Class for 4th Graders

Conflict & Justice

This year Russia required fourth graders across the country to take a religion class. There are six choices: Orthodox Christianity, Islam, Judaism, Buddhism, secular ethics or world religions.

Russian Orthodox Church Stakes Out Territory on Social Issues

Arts, Culture & Media

Church officials says the growth of piety is natural following the collapse of Communism 20 years ago, but Russians, clergy and people alike, are still figuring out what role the church should play.

The World

Russian orthodox patriarch dies

Lifestyle & Belief

Patriarch Alexiy the Second, leader of the Russian Orthodox Church, died today at the age of seventy-nine.