Today, Explained A priest explains Putin’s “holy” war
May 9, 2022
Fr. Cyril Hovarun, a Professor at the Stockholm School of Theology and expert in ecclesiology, shares insights into Patriarch Kirill's controversial support for Putin's war in Ukraine. He discusses Kirill’s transformation from an anti-Kremlin priest to a leader endorsing nationalism intertwined with faith. The conversation highlights the church's historical struggles, the complex church-state dynamics, and the disillusionment of Ukrainian Christians leading to parish divisions. Hovarun emphasizes how religious narratives are wielded to legitimize conflict and shape identity.
AI Snips
Chapters
Transcript
Episode notes
Kremlin's Manipulation of the Church
- The Kremlin used the church for propaganda despite persecuting it.
- Hierarchs were coerced into spreading misinformation about religious freedom in the Soviet Union.
Kirill's U-Turn
- Initially anti-Soviet, Kirill drastically changed upon becoming Patriarch.
- He shifted from open-mindedness to extreme conservatism, opposing his former self.
Kirill and Putin: A Deal with the Devil
- Kirill's relationship with Putin is a pragmatic alliance, not friendship.
- He views it as a deal with the devil, providing the church prosperity at the cost of silence.