CHARITABLE ACTIVITIES OF ORTHODOX MONASTERIES IN SOUTHERN UKRAINE FROM THE SECOND HALF OF XIX CENTURY TILL 1917

Abstract

The relevance of the study is due to the need for theoretical understanding of historical experience in the field of social assistance and its practical application in modern charitable activities of the Orthodox Church. The purpose of the article is a comprehensive analysis of the philanthropy of Orthodox monasteries in the Southern Ukrainian dioceses from the second half of the nineteenth century till 1917. The main methods used in the study are divided into theoretical (analysis, synthesis, comparison) and empirical (document analysis). The analysis of basic forms and methods of social assistance to the people in need is carried out. The method of comparison, made it possible to determine the common features and peculiarities of the charity of the Orthodox monasteries of Southern Ukraine. Reconstruction of events and processes, generalization of conclusions, formation of holistic knowledge about the research problem became possible due to the use of the synthesis method. Analysis of documents was used in working with economic and administrative documents of monasteries. In general, it is the quantitative data that allow more accurately and comprehensively identify trends and patterns, make generalizations and draw conclusions about the scope and effectiveness of charitable activities. The study found that the main forms of philanthropy of monasteries in Southern Ukraine were as follows: philanthropic activities, medical care, maintenance of schools, financial support of theological schools, personal participation of abbots in the activities of charities, the establishment of shelters for refugees and temporary hospitals for the wounded warriors. Church charity was an important complement to the private and public support of the people in need.