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The presence of the Romanian Orthodox Church in society

The impact of the social changes brought about in Romania by the start of the process of democratisation of society led churches - in particular the Romanian Orthodox Church - to reconsider their attitude towards, and involvement in, life in society. The Orthodox Church promoted a doctrine of pity and compassion towards society and the problems that man is faced with today.
Although Orthodoxy emphasises contemplation and the ideal of human redemption, it has not remained indifferent to human needs and social priorities. During 1948-1989, under the Communist regime, the Romanian Orthodox Church and the other churches found it impossible to play their role in society. Nevertheless, since 1990 there has been an increasingly active and meaningful presence of the Church in the social arena. This change is visible in the following areas:
 Intensifying charitable, social activities, as well as a significant development of philanthropic associations;
 The return of military chaplaincies and chapels;
 The reintroduction of religious education in state schools (optional lessons where each student has the right to choose according to the religion they belong to);
 The reintroduction of chapels into hospitals and prisons.

D 2 October 2012    AIuliana Conovici ALaurenţiu Tănase AManuela Gheorghe

CNRS Unistra Dres Gsrl

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