Religion and Resistance: The Ukrainian Orthodox and Greek Catholic Churches in Resistance Efforts in the War Against Russia

As the Russian-instigated war in Ukraine nears its first-year anniversary, resistance—population-based efforts to frustrate and repel an occupying force—remains an important piece of the overall strategy to liberate Ukraine from Russian forces and influence. The Ukrainian Orthodox and Greek Catholic churches play an important role in efforts to resist Russian occupation and acts as a symbol and structure of resilience in the face of continued military operations against the Ukrainian homeland.   

This year’s Templeton Lecture on Religion and World Affairs features Dr. Heather S. Gregg, who will be discussing the concept of resistance in military operations, the pros and cons of including religious organizations in resistance operations, and the unique role that the Ukrainian Orthodox and Greek Catholic churches are playing in resistance operations in Ukraine today.   

The Templeton Lecture on Religion and World Affairs was established in 1996 with a gift from the late John M. Templeton, Jr., M.D., and has continued to be supported by the Templeton Family and the Psalm 103 Foundation ever since. For access to previous Templeton lectures, click here.