On December 5, Saratov State University opens XII Inter-Regional Pimen Readings “Vladimir the Great. Rus’ Civilizational Choice” dedicated to the SSU 105th Anniversary. The conference was attended by the scientists from SSU and other universities, churchman, SSU and Saratov Seminary students.
The 1st Pimen Readings took place in 2003. Based at Saratov State University, the conference has become one of the main events of Saratov cultural life. The organizers are SSU Faculty of Philosophy and Saratov Eparchy Department of Religious Education and Catechesis. The number of participants grows every time – they try to understand some topical issues of now and then, time lines and traditions of the national culture, history and religion.
Saratov Region vice-governor D.V. Fadeev opened the Readings and wished the participants to work efficiently: “Pimen Readings are a great educational platform that helps to explore connections between humanistic traditions and religious experience which are deep-rooted in Russia’s past. Our task is to keep and increase the great heritage, pass on the enduring values: love, good and responsibility”.
Chief Federal Inspector in Saratov Region M.V. Aleshina said Pimen Readings are a place where a constructive dialogue between church, government and society takes place. “SSU celebrates its 105th anniversary. Hosting this event here symbolizes the unity of science and spirit; religion and science are united in their pursuit to better a man, to develop his spirituality and knowledge”, said M.V. Aleshina.
Metropolitan of Saratov and Volsk Longin welcomed the guests and announced that the same topic would be central at the International Christmas Readings taking place in Moscow in January next year. “It is very important today to value our history – Christanization of Rus’ – and understand why Christianity became a unifying factor. Prince Vladimir’s choice had defined the way our country developed politically, spiritually and culturally”, said Metropolitan.
SSU President L.Yu. Kossovich reminded of the recent visit of Patriarch of Moscow and all Rus' Kirill to the university. “The consecration of a church in the name of St. Cyril and Methodius is a great honour for the university. It has great symbolical meaning. It’s understood today that secular and religious educations go hand in hand”, said the President. According to L.Yu. Kossovich, the Russian world faces a serious threat of losing its integrity and cultural identity. That’s why the Pimen Readings are so important for national and spiritual conscience of the nation.
Other reporters also spoke about the importance of the Readings.
Educational Forum “Orthodox Culture and Modern Education took place on December 6.
