Territorial and cultural localization as factor of church legal consciousness: problem stating

The article raises the problem of relationship between the church legal consciousness and geographical localization of Christian communities. It is argued that the legal understanding of Church members and law enforcement practices are conditioned by historical, ethnic and cultural factors. The accumulated historical, ethnographic and socio-psychological material brings to a conclusion that despite the universal authority of the norms of church law, they are understood differently in different places, and in some cases strictly depend on a local tradition. This situation is particularly characteristic of Russia, with its vast expanses, ethno-cultural mosaic, and relatively weak connection of inner territories with each other. Due to its complexity and interdisciplinary status, this topic has not yet been the subject of specific scientific research. Thus, the article opens up an extensive and long-range research field whose development will make for a new understanding and comprehension of the legal heritage of the Church and its implementation in history and present Russian realities. The article is based on a report presented at the VIII Barsov Readings (St. Petersburg Theological Academy, 06.12.2024).