Brezhnev’s Policies Towards The Church Flashcards
What happened to the active persecution of the church when Khrushchev was removed from power?
It declined
Why did active persecution of the church decline when Khrushchev fell?
The West wasn’t a fan
Foreign policy was important
Under Brezhnev, the church could act,
Within defined limits
What was used by the government under Brezhnev to monitor religious services?
the Council of Religious Affairs
How were the clergy classified under Brezhnev?
According to loyalty to socialism
What was expected of the Orthodox Church under Brezhnev?
Stick to formal services
Support Soviet policies (esp. social policy—> provide resources to help the poor)
Not all church members were satisfied with the submission to Brezhnev.
In what year did a group of Orthodox Priests set up what organisation to draw attention to HUMAN RIGHTS ABUSES?
1976
Christian Committee for the Defense of Believer’s Rights
What was the name of the Christian Committee for the Defence of Believer’s Rights’ leader?
What happened to him?
Father Yakunin
Sentenced to 5 YEARS in prison for ANTI SOVIET PROPAGANDA in 1979
Obvs a step too far for Brezhnev
Which religious groups were treated with less tolerance under Brezhnev?
Those more likely to be critical of the regime- Jews and Baptists
What happened to Jews and Baptists (more likely to be critical of regime) under Brezhnev?
Evangelical activities of PREACHING TO GAIN CONVERTS restricted
PRAYER MEETINGS broken up
Members DISMISSED FROM JOBS
Under Brezhnev, Jews and Baptists (despite restrictions) continued by ….
Unregistered congregations continuing to MEET & DISTRIBUTING prayer booms
