This is the twenty-first episode of the Conversations Series, and the inaugural, associate Professorship lecture (aka "docent-lecture") of the host of the Religion in Praxis Conversations Series himself, Dr. Tornike Metreveli, under the title "Timeless Traditions, Changing Times: A Sociological Voyage through Orthodox Christianity."

The duality of faith as both sanctuary and storm is a paradox, one that resonates powerfully within the context of Orthodox Christianity. This exploration traverses arenas of power, global health crises, and conflict-laden landscapes.

This recording of the inaugural lecture commences by scrutinizing the dynamics between church and state in the post-communist settings of Ukraine, Serbia, and Georgia. The objective is to illuminate the strategies of the Orthodox Church as it shapes and is shaped by the political transitions in these societies.

The lecture then pivots towards an unprecedented universal crisis: the COVID-19 pandemic. Orthodox Christianity's response to this challenge is explored in depth, revealing the adaptation and reformation of traditions and practices that have been followed for centuries.

The final stage of the lecture focuses on Ukraine, a crossroads where faith, warfare, and national identity collide. The lecture here draw attention to the dual role of Orthodox Christianity, showcasing its potential as a source of resilience and its power to catalyse conflict.

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Music for the Conversation Series is generously provided by the Shavnabada Choir . The project author and the host of the Conversation Series is Dr. Tornike Metreveli.

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Religion and Theology is produced by Joel Kuhlin for the Center for Theology and Religious Studies. If you have comments or critique of this episode, or any other episodes of R&T, please contact us via the podcast's twitteraccount: @reloteol.

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