The collapse of communist rule in Russia and Eastern Europe ended the greatest persecution of religion since the fall of the Roman Empire. Not only did popular elections and a market economy become a priority for the new democratic agenda but freedom of conscience and religious liberty were viewed as indispensable. Believers were suddenly free to practice their faith openly without threat of persecution. Christian leaders - some of whom had shown courage in communist times - were called upon to lead the renewal of civil society under the rule of law.
But the course of development in post-communist Russia is uncertain. So, too, is religion's place and role. Newly strengthened, divisive ideologies, such as nationalism and continuing economic chaos are constraining religion's constructive and prophetic role.
In an attempt to address this revolutionary change - and uncertainty - this volume brings together historians, social scientists, and theologians from Europe and the United States who ask the deceptively simple question, "What is happening now to religion in Russia?" Drawing upon Eastern Orthodox, Protestant, and Roman Catholic points of view, they examine the religious attitudes, activities, and institutions of post-communist Russia and explore the ways in which religion will significantly impact emerging social and political questions there. The volume is essential reading for scholars of Russian politics, society, and religion and for anyone interested in the emerging culture of the former Soviet Union and Eastern Europe.