Yelensky explains the mission of the Church
The head of DESS Viktor Yelensky noted that the state cannot assume the functions of the Church.
During the discussion panel "The Relationship between Church and State: Specific Approaches of Orthodox, Catholics, and Protestants," the head of the State Service of Ukraine for Ethnopolitics and Freedom of Conscience (DESS), Viktor Yelensky, shared his views on the nature of the relationship between these institutions, as reported by the agency's website.
"There is always a certain tension between the church and the state, as they have different natures. However, this tension, in my opinion, is beneficial – it promotes the progress of both sides," Yelensky emphasized.
He also noted that the mission of the Church is to discern good from evil and convey this understanding to society. In the modern world, especially in the West, the Church has been able to focus on its spiritual role, as the state has taken over many of the social functions that were previously carried out by religious organizations. Nevertheless, as Yelensky points out, the state cannot fulfill the primary function of the Church – maintaining a connection with the transcendent and discerning morality.
As reported by the UOJ, Viktor Yelensky spoke of the high level of religious freedom in Ukraine, as well as the existing religious competition in the country.
