Faith and Sovereignty: Interview with Professor Ambassador Tamara Grdzelidze

Religion in Praxis Conversation Series

In this episode of the Praxis in Religion Conversation Series, Tornike Metreveli discusses with Professor Tamara Grdzelidze, a former Ambassador of Georgia to the Holy See, how ecclesiastical borders related to national boundaries and what connections exist between Orthodoxy and national identity. Orthodox Christianity is reviewed for its capacity for a complex and multifaceted relationship with political power throughout its history. In some cases, Orthodox Christianity has influenced political power and shaped the policies and practices of ruling elites. In other cases, political power has shaped the direction and development of Orthodox Christianity. Today, the relationship between Orthodox Christianity and political power is particularly relevant in Eastern Europe, where the influence of Orthodox Christianity on society and politics is significant. However, the connections between Orthodoxy and political power are far from simple and fixed. They are influenced by a variety of historical, cultural, and social factors, and can vary significantly from one country or region to another.