Discretion and Valour: Religious Conditions in Russia and Eastern Europe

Yet, contrary to Communist theory, faith itself continues to flourish and in some situations, most notably in Poland, the church still exerts considerable influence. What is the secret of survival for these Christian, Jewish, and Moslem communities?

Trevor Beeson, a knowledgeable observer of East European affairs, provides a comprehensive account of religious life under Communism.

He gives historical background, information about significant leaders, and an up-to-date picture of life and witness in congregations. He focuses on the crucial question faced by every religious community: Is faith best expressed through confrontation or through compromise with hostile secular powers? Should believers choose paths of valour and even martyrdom, or paths of accommodation and discretion?

The answer for the various communities in the various countries has not always been the same, but it is always a matter of life and death. Everyone concerned about the faithful within the Soviet orbit and about the relation between religion and Communism will be grateful for the timely and thorough updating of this authoritative and moving survey.