Russia and Its National Minorities: Christian Ministry in a Racially Charged Atmoshpere

Johnson, Peter (2009) Russia and Its National Minorities: Christian Ministry in a Racially Charged Atmoshpere. East-West Church & Ministry Report, 17 (3). pp. 1-2.

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Official URL: http://www.eastwestreport.org/32-english/e-17-3/25...

Abstract

In Russia one frequent use of the word nationalist relates to the country’s small, indigenous ethnic groups. Specifically, many Russians are alarmed by the thought of “nationalist” aspirations among their minority populations, seeing such sentiments as a serious threat that must be vigorously resisted. In the years in which I have worked with indigenous ethnic nations in Russia, I have come to understand that Russians disapprove of groups which stress their national identity through the use of their native language or culture. From the Russian perspective, it is problematic for national minorities to separate themselves from the larger majority culture. Like their attitude towards religious minorities, which they label “sects” or schismatics, many Russians fear the country’s smaller ethnic groups setting themselves apart and creating divisions, in contrast to the traditional Russian world view which values unity. If Christian mission in Russia’s ethnic regions is to succeed, and if Russia as a federation is to be stable, it is essential that good relations prevail among ethnic groups. The goal of this essay is to highlight difficulties faced by Russia’s smaller nationalities and to encourage reflection on how Western missionaries may best serve among them.

Item Type: Article
Uncontrolled Keywords: national minorities ; indigenous ethnic groups
Subjects: B Mission theology/theory
B Mission theology/theory > Identity issues
B Mission theology/theory > Contextualization/Inculturation
Divisions: Former Soviet Union > Russian Federation
Depositing User: Users 3 not found.
Date Deposited: 09 Aug 2018 17:37
Last Modified: 09 Aug 2018 17:37
URI: https://ceeamsprints.osims.org/id/eprint/488

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