Christians
Reports on Christians See all →
Orthodox split bolsters Russia’s political regime
Patriarch Bartholomew of Constantinople shocked the world last month by deciding Ukraine should have its own Autocephalous Orthodox Church, ending its subordination to Moscow. If the complex canonical procedure succeeds, it will have large political implications. The Russian Orthodox Church would lose its transnational character, making it even more dependent on the state. In consequence, Russia’s international isolation will grow and its “fortress mentality” deepen.
Tolerating persecution of Christians destroys lives and free societies
Around the world, but especially in the Middle East, Christians are coming under attack. According to some estimates, more than 80 percent of all religious discrimination is directed against Christians. However, Western politicians remain silent. Failure to address this issue and defend the rights of Christians where they are persecuted ...
Global Outlook 2017: Defense of Christian values
Western civilization again entered a dangerous period of disarray. It is weakened internally by overindulgence and self-doubt, and besieged by forces hostile to its bedrock values of liberty and tolerance. The West can reverse the decline, though, by resolutely returning to its Christian roots.
Syria’s future: the losers and winners
For all the confusion about Syria’s civil war, there’s no doubt about the big loser – the Syrian people. But nearly every regional power that has intervened to advance its own interests has also paid a heavy price, as has the European Union, a not-so-innocent bystander. For now, the most ...
Pope Francis, diplomat extraordinaire
Whether navigating the Barque of Peter through the rough waters of international politics – or the even rougher waters of Church politics – Pope Francis is proving to be far more skilful and more adept than many of his detractors anticipated. In part, this is because he knows his own ...
