The war in Ukraine and the church A call upon theology

Abstract

This article is based on the inaugural lecture by Thomas Mark Németh at the University of Vienna on 19 May 2022, in which he addresses the Russian war of aggression on Ukraine since the large-scale invasion of 2022 and its religious dimensions. The war not only poses existential questions but also has implications for the churches and religious communities in Ukraine and Russia, respectively as well as for their relationship with each other. The author presents an overview of the diverse religious landscape in Ukraine with a focus on the Orthodox church and its two jurisdictional divisions. Németh also investigates the position of the Patriarchate of Moscow and statements made by Pope Francis. Ecumenism as well as Christian peace ethics are called upon to resolve fundamental questions. Understanding historical dimensions and ideological factors that led to the current situation is of utmost importance. As is navigating political dimensions beyond the sphere of the church and avoiding tendencies of instrumentalization in finding ethical approaches. Here, academic theology can be a critical influence on intra-church considerations while the church may take inspiration from civic engagement.