RELIGION IN EAST EUROPE
Stit,—The present fundamental struggle in Eastern Europe, as elsewhere, is between those who believe in God and those who do not. In the Spectator's words—" Cross or Sickle." The situation, according to Mr. Stanley G. Evans, is merely one of "adjustments" of the relations between Church and State. He adds, with staggering complacency, that " the results are, no doubt, far from perfect." Probably Cardinal Mindszenty, if he is still able to think at all, would there agree with him. It was Mr. Evans, was it not, who covered the Cardinal's " trial" for the Daily Worker? What Is the mysterious attraction of Communism that makes Mr. Evans rush to the defence of Communist regimes in Eastern Europe because at one time Roman Catholics were persecuted
in England How is this relevant to the present issue ? And what, precisely, is the "strength of the Russian Church " which Mr. Evans mentions but does not elaborate ? The point is such an old one. Communism is basically opposed to Christianity. The Soviet constitution permits " freedom of religious worship " (" worship " is the operative word, not " instruction") and " freedom of anti-religious propaganda." The Russian Church is an instrument of Kremlin policy, and is only allowed to exist as a subservient department of the Communist State so long as it does what it is told and so long as it is convenient for it to exist.
Perhaps Mr. Evans would help us still further to be " wise " about the Eastern European situation and tell us more about the Soviet Govern- ment's enormous efforts to teach Christianity and to encourage the ministrations of the Churches. Perhaps, then, we benighted, misled creatures might stop " throwing stones." Or is it possible that throwing stones is sometimes more justified than throwing bouquets?-1 am, Sir,
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