The War in Ukraine and the Theological Dialogue between the Russian Orthodox Church and the Evangelical Lutheran Church of Finland

Authors

• Heta Hurskainen University of Eastern Finland 0000-0003-2779-0340

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.61560/ortodoksia.136078

Keywords:

Ukraine, Theological dialogue, Russian Orthodox Church, Evangelical Lutheran Church of Finland, War

Abstract

This article focuses on the theological dialogue between the Russian Orthodox Church (ROC) and the Evangelical Lutheran Church of Finland (ELCF). It also examines how Ukraine - and the war there - has been discussed and dealt with in the churches' relations. Although the theological dialogue has avoided acute political and church political issues, political events cannot but influence the dialogue as its context. Over the decades, the context of Ukraine and the changes that have taken place in its Orthodox churches have influenced the dialogue. What significance has Ukraine had for this dialogue? How has the Russian war against Ukraine affected the theological dialogue and communication between the churches?

First, I will examine the attempts of the ELCF to continue the dialogue with the ROC in the 2010s. Second, I will look closely at how Ukraine has been considered in the dialogue since the 1990s. Thirdly, I will explore how the Russian war against Ukraine, which began in 2002, has influenced the ELCF's attitude towards the ROC.

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