Tuesday, March 18, 2008 at 12:12am
Most Russians are religious: Survey
Most Russians believe in God, consider themselves religious and Orthodox, view faith as the source of meaning in life and that the Church's main role is to support social mores, according to a survey conducted in February by the Levada Analytical Center. The findings show 42 per cent of the Russian population is religious, 33 per cent is not very religious and only 20 per cent say they are not religious at all, AsiaNews reported Tuesday.
As for membership in the Russian Orthodox Church, 71 per cent say they feel a part of the Church (compared to 60 per cent in 2004 and 69 per cent in 2007). Muslims constitute 5 per cent; Catholics 1 per cent; Atheists 5 per cent and 15 per cent do not follow any religion.
When it comes to specific beliefs, a third say "God exists' and had "no doubts" about his existence; 21 per cent "believe that God exists but sometimes have doubts;" 14 per cent believe from time to time. One tenth do not believe in God's existence; 9 per cent are not sure and does not believe one can prove his existence; 11 per cent believes in some higher power (but not in God.)
For 36 per cent of respondents, religion gives meaning to life; 29 per cent believe it helps people to be more tolerant and support hardships; 18 per cent believe it is necessary for them as believers. However, for 22 per cent religion means nothing in their lives.
As for membership in the Russian Orthodox Church, 71 per cent say they feel a part of the Church (compared to 60 per cent in 2004 and 69 per cent in 2007). Muslims constitute 5 per cent; Catholics 1 per cent; Atheists 5 per cent and 15 per cent do not follow any religion.
When it comes to specific beliefs, a third say "God exists' and had "no doubts" about his existence; 21 per cent "believe that God exists but sometimes have doubts;" 14 per cent believe from time to time. One tenth do not believe in God's existence; 9 per cent are not sure and does not believe one can prove his existence; 11 per cent believes in some higher power (but not in God.)
For 36 per cent of respondents, religion gives meaning to life; 29 per cent believe it helps people to be more tolerant and support hardships; 18 per cent believe it is necessary for them as believers. However, for 22 per cent religion means nothing in their lives.