Conceptual Markers of the Correlation of Statics and Dynamics of Modern Russian Orthodoxy

Abstract

The Russian Orthodox Church remains an important factor in the social processes of modern Russia, so a clear understanding of possible options for its future development is a significant prerequisite for developing principles of interaction between Church and society, preserving cultural continuity while assimilating new standards of life. During the active discussion devoted to this topic, the adequacy of the terms in which it is conducted stays hidden. The purpose of the article was precisely to determine the degree of conformity of the conceptual tools used in discussing the problem of the relationship between the variability and constancy of Russian Orthodoxy in the conditions of turbulent transformations on a global scale. The logical and epistemological analysis of the definitions as "conservatism", "fundamentalism", "liberalism", "mobilization ability", "innovativeness", etc. in relation to the intra-church processes allowed the authors to establish their limited applicability and point out those prerequisites that, represented by a dialogical appeal to the living experience of Sacred Tradition, will be able to ensure an optimal balance of statics and dynamics in Russian Orthodoxy, guarantee the unity of preserving the foundation of faith and its implementation in new conditions.