Confessional Television in the Modern Media Space of the Russian Orthodox Church

Abstract

Modern Russian television runs a wide range of channels capable of engaging and satisfying any audience. In pursuit of audience appeal and ratings, each channel offers a variety of programs in its broadcast schedule, thereby attracting the attention of different viewers. The classification of channels may be based on the target audience. Religious organizations also take this factor into consideration. Modern religious institutions actively use television to meet the needs of their religious groups. This article focuses on Orthodox television channels, designed not only for Orthodox audiences but also for anyone interested in Orthodox tradition, faith, culture, and art. Analyzing television broadcasts, as well as the work of researchers examining Orthodox television in the context of modern mass media, we have determined that Orthodox television not only has a missionary and educational value, but also contributes to the churching and socialization of those viewers who, for various reasons, cannot personally attend church, address their questions to clergymen, or directly communicate with representatives of the community.