In Four Russian Regions, Orthodox Christianity Becomes a Compulsory Subject of Study

August 31, 2006

Source: BBC News

http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/europe/5301018.stm

On August 31, 2006 BBC News reported, "The Orthodox Christian religion is being made a compulsory school subject in four of Russia's regions. Pupils in the Belgorod, Bryansk, Kaluga and Smolensk regions will be taught the basics of Orthodox Christianity. It will also be included as an optional subject in the school curriculum in 11 other regions across the country. Supporters say the move will help protect traditional spiritual values in Russia. Critics say it violates the constitution of the secular state... Orthodox Christianity is Russia's main religion, but the country's Muslim community makes up more than 10% of the total population. There are 86 regions and republics in the Russian Federation."