Orthodoxy and Conservative Values in Romania
摘要
Long recognized as one of the conservative forces in post-communist Romania, the majority Orthodox Church (ROC) has condemned homosexuality, gender politics, and divorce and continues to relegate women to secondary positions although they are its most numerous and active members. This chapter examines, in broad strokes, the way in which the ROC has positioned itself toward two values considered essential for a democratic society: toleration and inclusion. While not denying the ROC’s reluctance to reform and open, or its vocal criticism of what many see as “European” values, the chapter contends that the values upheld by the majority Church are not severely misaligned from the values upheld by other religious minorities or the general public in that country.