The Union of Orthodox Citizens opposed the creation of the "Ministry of Cults"

On April 24, the SPG made a categorical protest against the idea of ​​creating a state body for religious affairs.

Noting changes in the propaganda argumentation of this idea (“if earlier it was more openly, “head-on” that it was necessary to “restrain the ROC”, “ensure the rights of other faiths” (especially “Russian Islam” and neo-charismatic sects), now the creation of a “state agency for religious affairs" are promoted as a manifestation of concern for the Russian Orthodox Church and refer to the need to combat religious extremism"), SPG believes that such projects "are designed to cross out the great spiritual and historical choice of the Russian people."

"The Orthodox community is once again opposing the state agency for religious affairs. Taxpayers' money must be used effectively," the statement says.

Sources

• "Russian officials become victims of false ideas": commentary of the SPG press service // Radonezh. 2003. 24 April.