VTsIOM: 3% of Russians observe Lent

On March 29, 2015, VTsIOM published the results of a survey , dedicated to the observance of Great Lent by Russians. The poll was conducted on 21-22 March, 1600 people in 132 settlements of the country became its participants.  

77% of respondents reported that they maintain a normal diet during the post. Another 9% fast partially, 6% fast only on the last week. Only 3% of the respondents fully observe the fast.

Of interest are the views of the respondents about what restrictions suggest Lent. 68% are aware of the need to give up animal foods, 62% believe that fatty foods should be abandoned and another 62% believe that one should abstain from alcohol. 53% are sure that during fasting, one should not think about bad things (19% among all respondents and 38% among those who who keeps the fast) and the same number - that it is impossible to use foul language.

45% believe that it is necessary to give up entertainment, but on In practice, 11% of all respondents and 33% of those who comply with food restrictions during fasting. 45% are sure that they should not smoke (at practice quit smoking 14% of all respondents and 32% of those who fast), 35% believe that it is necessary to abstain from sex (7% of respondents and 19% of those who fast claim to adhere to it in reality).

41% of respondents know that on the eve of Easter they should paint eggs, 37% believe that it is necessary to pray, 33% - that it is necessary to receive communion.

Sources

• "Great post-2015" // VCIOM. 2015. March 29.