The head of the Russian Orthodox Church has warned the country's internet users of the potential “terrible and destructive influence” of their online comments on society.
Speaking at the Arkhangelsk Region's Solovetsky Monastery on Sunday, Patriarch Kirill said that while it was impossible to escape the digital age, anyone publishing their thoughts online wielded a dangerous power.
He also denounced online celebrities who used “their mind, talent, knowledge, influence and popularity to defile human nature.”
The Patriarch called on monks, church leaders and especially young people to resist “the creation of murderous ideas” online, claiming that such strength can only come from a faith in God.
A Message from The Moscow Times:
Dear readers,
We are facing unprecedented challenges. Russia's Prosecutor General's Office has designated The Moscow Times as an "undesirable" organization, criminalizing our work and putting our staff at risk of prosecution. This follows our earlier unjust labeling as a "foreign agent."
These actions are direct attempts to silence independent journalism in Russia. The authorities claim our work "discredits the decisions of the Russian leadership." We see things differently: we strive to provide accurate, unbiased reporting on Russia.
We, the journalists of The Moscow Times, refuse to be silenced. But to continue our work, we need your help.
Your support, no matter how small, makes a world of difference. If you can, please support us monthly starting from just $2. It's quick to set up, and every contribution makes a significant impact.
By supporting The Moscow Times, you're defending open, independent journalism in the face of repression. Thank you for standing with us.
Remind me later.
