At the end of this book, Ron Davies asks whether the churches of Eastern Europe will survive the influx of Christianity from the West as well as they weathered the ravages of Soviet Communism. Before posing that question, Davies provides insightful background on denominations and organizations active in the former Soviet Union. In his analysis, Davies profiles a number of veteran organizations. He also highlights the many once-forbidden activities that Christians now are able to engage in openly. Davies offers helpful history and counsel on current opportunities that will benefit anyone seeking a thoughtful and intelligent answer to the title question.
Richmond, Yale. From Nyet to Da: Understanding the Russians. Yarmouth, ME: Intercultural Press, Inc., 1992. $15.95.
As Yale Richmond astutely notes, there are no shortcuts to
understanding the Russians. But, based on 25 years of experience,
From Nyet to Da offers much practical advice for
Americans without previous experience in Soviet affairs. Richmond
gives useful insights about Russian geography, culture, and politics,
and describes how each has contributed to the development of the
Russian character. He then provides a series of personal encounters and
his own strategy for negotiating with Russians. Also included are
practical suggestions for travelers and recommended readings.
Richmond's 161 pages give Westerners a practical, concise "crash
course" in what to expect in the CIS.
Highly Recommended.
Mojzes, Paul. Religious Liberty in Eastern Europe and the USSR. New York: Columbia University Press, 1992. $56.
With a chapter devoted to every country of East Central Europe, this book is the most helpful overview since Trevor Beeson's Discretion and Valour: Religious Conditions in Russia and Eastern Europe, 1982. Subtitled "Before and After the Great Transformation," Mojzes's book provides summaries of religious liberty through the eyes of Marx, Engels, and Lenin, and a chapter that updates every nation following the revolutions of 1989. Christians from the West would do well to understand religious liberty in East Central Europe in its historical context. Here is a good place to start.
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© 1993 East-West Church and Ministry Report
ISSN 1069-5664