The ingenious paradox

At the Kremlin presidential reception on the occasion of the millennium from the day of the replacement of the ward prince Vladimir, another Vladimir-Putin was noted by speech. Here is a quote: "Vladimir laid the foundation for a new Russian nation. The adoption of Christianity was based on the deep love of Prince Vladimir for his native Fatherland, on his serious spiritual thoughts, in the search for a single principle, capable of rallying the people and combining disparate lands." The TV illustrated these words: on the stage, in the company of the Patriarch and the mayor of the capital, the president kissed the icon. His associates also inspiredly said their speeches.

In the meantime, a survey on which place to erect a monument to Prince Vladimir is being conducted on the portal "Active Citizen" . That is, the monument in any case will be erected, and citizens were entrusted with choosing a place for the symbol of "New Russian History". Why new? Because there was no such scope of religious propaganda in modern Russia. The efficiency and consistency of the actions of officials and church figures plunges into shock. Not so long ago, the project “200 Churches of Moscow” appeared, the issue of transferring to the possession of the Russian Orthodox Church of the Isaac's Cathedral, the director of the scientific reserve in the newly received Chersonese was appointed a priest, and a monument to Vladimir was appointed a monument to the dessert. Personally, I am not against religion, but only as an individual choice of each citizen, but in fact we have propaganda from the state. More precisely, propaganda has us.

I think rarely in the world as in Russia, symbols of various ideologies take root at the same time. Until now, not hundreds are standing throughout the country, but six thousand monuments to Lenin, as you know, a noble atheist. Lenin himself in a suit and is quite officially stored under glass near the walls of the Kremlin, and those who are sitting behind these walls decide to erect a monument to the Baptist of Rus' in the capital. One could say: this is our feature, our brilliant paradox. But let's call a spade a spade: it's absurd! Liberalism? Democracy? It is unlikely. Rather, all this resembles an arrogant planting of beliefs, convenient authorities here and now, despite the fact that Russia is a secular, not a religious state.

On the other hand, it seems that nothing terrible happened. Most Russian citizens, at least formally, profess Orthodoxy, and here is such a monumental gift, everything is so patriotic and sincere. Once again, such a scheme works: the state makes a decision and offers citizens (apparently, as a show -off democracy), choose a place to fulfill this decision. This is the same story of maintaining the facade with cosmetic repairs. The minds of those who are ready to believe in the special path of Russia, thanks to its past victories and legendary achievements, are abundantly covered with ideological paint.

I am scared by the growing number of Orthodox fanatics, whose speeches are pouring in the same choir with statements by politicians and church officials

I doubt, however, that a civilized society will appreciate this "beauty." Disputes about the construction of the squares for parks and other municipal objects have not yet subsided, and the Kremlin has prepared a new project to strengthen the ideological and patriotic spirit. Direct dependence is traced: the worse the economic and political situation in Russia, the more people encourage faith. This, however, is understandable: what else does the authorities have to do if the prospects in the economy are not visible, political reforms do not give a result? The easiest way: rallying the masses with a common idea. The baptism of Rus' and the image of Vladimir - the unifying of the Russian lands fell on time.

I am scared by the growing number of Orthodox fanatics, whose speeches are pouring in the same choir with statements by politicians and church officials. In no case do I want to offend the feelings of believers (especially since they are now protected by law), but in this case, be kind, observe another law - the one that regulates the presence of the church in society and the state. The fanatical commitment of religion entails the adoption of illogical decisions or consent with such. Not a single sane person will approve the choice in favor of the construction of the church or the monument instead of the hospital, school or park. But how can I disagree with this when the celebrations of the traditions of the Russian nation rattle on state television channels? Everyone wants to feel chosen and special. At this desire, the Kremlin deftly plays in a duet with the Russian Orthodox Church. Although no, it plays not deftly, but fake and tactlessly, but, apparently, this composition will sound, despite all its falsehood. After all, almost the whole country sings along.

Maxim Migal - Moscow blogger, student of the Faculty of Journalism