Culture

In looking at the current culture of Russia, there are several aspects from its past and present that are important.  Today’s Russia is influenced by its communal past but is also facing modern challenges like alcoholism, materialism, and low wages, all of which affect the day-to-day life of its people.

A Communal People

Russia has long been a communal society where people are apt to think as a group.  This affects the mentality of the people in many ways.  Russians have historically lived very close together and had little privacy, a fact that continues today.  Russians are also a very social people.  They enjoy being together, and they enjoy large groups.  They take friendships seriously and are very genuine and committed people.  Furthermore, hospitality is quickly offered, even with those you have just met.  A visit to someone’s house will inevitably see tea and cookies, if not a larger meal, and an invitation to stay for as long as you like.  And once you know them, Russians are quick to offer their help and services.  Such sociability is a big part of Russians’ lives and our ministry work here.

Modern Problems

The end of communism brought a great upheaval in the lives of people in Russia.  Much of the security and stability found under the Soviet government disappeared, and the culture since that time has been most notably marked by confusion.  Communism had also tried to provide a moral compass for society, and a host of problems arose when this guidance disappeared.

One of the most famous of these problems is alcoholism.  Drinking is prevalent in Russia, playing a role in almost every major event in life as well as being the regular form of escape.  It is often taken to extremes, and it is difficult to overstate its impact on Russian culture and life.  Work ethic, family abuse, moral direction, and life span are all significantly affected.

In addition to alcoholism and similar problems, materialism has come powerfully to Russia.  The desire for material things and the status that comes with them is seen everywhere.  Advertisements, television, and western movies all contribute heavily to Russians’ goals in life.  Despite low salaries, Russians are willing to spend everything they can to attain a higher lifestyle.  The relentless pursuit of a higher economic status pushes other priorities to the side and creates barriers for the church to reach out to people.

Russian Life

Economically, life for people in Russia is difficult.  Salaries are low, and the cost of goods is high.  The majority of people are just making ends meet, and the cost of housing is especially difficult for families to pay.  Nonetheless, the situation has improved over the last decade.  Although most people could still be described as financially strained, most are no longer in crisis mode.  People are able to afford food and the other necessities of life.  For wealthier Russians, material desires and a lack of savings still stretch them financially.  The consumer credit that is becoming available here is sure to have a big impact.

Furthermore, Russians do not know whom they can trust as corruption is such a problem throughout society.  Resisting it can seem hopeless.  In addition, Russians view politics with pessimism.  People are skeptical about whether elections make a difference, and do not completely believe in Russian democracy.

Russian daily life has many difficulties.  We continue to pray that they will be willing to reach out from these difficulties and see the hope there is in Christ.

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