Report about SPbCU Social Conference June, 26-29, 2008
Section number six of the conference tackled the doctrine (or concept) of Christian social ethics. Five papers were presented reflecting on the topic from various perspectives, to include both theory and the practice.
Alexander Dubrovsky from Minsk laid out the principles of a social doctrine in a evangelical setting. He highlighted methodological parameters which any doctrine should m
eet to be a coherent document of theory.
Tatyana Nikolskaya from SPbCU emphasized historical and practical aspects. Her paper reminded about an "implicit" social concept that was prevalent in Russia during the time of persecution. Communitarianism, personal holiness, focus on children and missionary activity were the four pillars of the social life of the protestant Christians for the much of the twentieth century.
The paper by Natalya Baskakova (Novgorod the Great) touched upon the question of identity in the post-Soviet period. Complexities in the social and economic transformation of Russia effected changes in religious self-understanding, and such processes continue even today.
Alexei Opalev from SPbCU talked about implementation of Christian social doctrines in contemporary Russia. He drew interesting parallels between approaches in the orthodox, catholic and the protestant communities and also suggested that work on a doctrine is a response to globalization.
Final presentation was by Glenn Shwartz from the United States who spoke about overcoming unhealthy dependency in the Christian movement. Interesting examples were cited as to how various Christian churches were able to better fulfill their mission after they stopped relying on western aid.
All five presenters drew an active response from the audience. They were asked questions and engaged in discussions.
Alexander Dubrovsky from Minsk laid out the principles of a social doctrine in a evangelical setting. He highlighted methodological parameters which any doctrine should m
eet to be a coherent document of theory. Tatyana Nikolskaya from SPbCU emphasized historical and practical aspects. Her paper reminded about an "implicit" social concept that was prevalent in Russia during the time of persecution. Communitarianism, personal holiness, focus on children and missionary activity were the four pillars of the social life of the protestant Christians for the much of the twentieth century.
The paper by Natalya Baskakova (Novgorod the Great) touched upon the question of identity in the post-Soviet period. Complexities in the social and economic transformation of Russia effected changes in religious self-understanding, and such processes continue even today.
Alexei Opalev from SPbCU talked about implementation of Christian social doctrines in contemporary Russia. He drew interesting parallels between approaches in the orthodox, catholic and the protestant communities and also suggested that work on a doctrine is a response to globalization.
Final presentation was by Glenn Shwartz from the United States who spoke about overcoming unhealthy dependency in the Christian movement. Interesting examples were cited as to how various Christian churches were able to better fulfill their mission after they stopped relying on western aid.
All five presenters drew an active response from the audience. They were asked questions and engaged in discussions.