Abstract
The purpose of this article is twofold: firstly, to examine the origins and historical development of Christians of the Evangelical Faith (Pentecostals) in Western Ukraine from 1920 until today; secondly, to give an account of current theological problems of Western Ukrainian Pentecostalism and to explore its theological renewal, which began after the Revolution of Dignity (2013-2014). In doing so, the socio-political, ethnic, and religious contexts of the birth of Pentecostalism in Western Ukraine will be studied; these include the living conditions of Ukrainians in the Second Polish Republic, religious situation in Western Ukraine between the First and Second World Wars, historical development of the Pentecostal movement in this region, as well as the most significant theological influences that informed its doctrinal features and ethical patterns. Concerning the contemporary theological issues Pentecostalism faces in Ukraine, special attention will be paid to the process of the search for theological identity and worldview, development of educational institutions, and dramatic transitions in articulations of Pentecostalism in contemporary Ukraine. Discovering the heritage of other Christian traditions, through participation in the practical ecumenical initiatives and critical study of Pentecostal theology in a university setting, initiated a theological renewal among the younger generation of Pentecostals. Its features are concern for socially responsible theology, promotion of political activism, struggle for justice, and economic liberation. Theological and ethical search Pentecostalism in Ukraine was also stimulated by the dramatic events of the recent Ukrainian history.
Recommended Citation
Soloviy, Roman
(2020)
"Pentecostalism in Western Ukraine: Historical Development and Current Theological Challenges,"
Occasional Papers on Religion in Eastern Europe: Vol. 40
:
Iss.
7
, Article 7.
Available at:
https://digitalcommons.georgefox.edu/ree/vol40/iss7/7