Pentecostal Public Engagement in the Context of Russian Religious and Cultural History

Pentecostalism with its public engagement is just a tiny part of Russia’s wider Christian history that followed the successful mission of Cyril and Methodius to the Slavic world, the first Bible translation, and public discussions on faith issues that resulted in a final option taken in favor of Byzantine Orthodoxy. Some important examples of theological disputes that influenced the state development and inner politics throughout Russian history are mentioned as an introduction to its general religious and cultural context. After the discussion of contemporary issues related to the Pentecostal and Charismatic engagement with the public sphere, with particular emphasis on Russian Orthodoxy, the challenges Pentecostals and Charismatics are facing are described with a proposal for possible ways to enhance their engagement in the transformation of European society.