The Firm Stance of the Russian Orthodox Church

With a congregation of around 100 million, the Russian Orthodox Church (ROC) has made it abundantly clear that cryptocurrency is not welcome in its pews. In a recent YouTube Q&A session by Jesus Portal, Hilarion Alfeyev, the chairman of the Department for External Church Relations, confirmed the church will neither accept Bitcoin donations nor create its own digital currency.

Technological Alternatives: The Phone Call Approach

As modern technology evolves, so should methods of donation—at least according to the ROC. Despite shunning cryptocurrency, Alfeyev offered an innovative alternative: phone calls. Yes, you heard that right! Donating to the ROC can be as simple as picking up your phone. “I think that it is quite possible to make a donation to the church over the phone,” he stated, leaving many to wonder if the church’s hotline is just a ring-a-thon of devotion.

From Skepticism to Mild Acceptance

Alfeyev’s current stance appears to be a slight easing of his previous criticisms about cryptocurrencies. Just three years ago, he likened cryptocurrencies to a Ponzi scheme, implying they were about as trustworthy as a sleazy used car salesman trying to sell you a lemon. Back then, he argued that cryptocurrencies enabled usury, something the church typically condemns. Now, it seems he’s softening a bit, perhaps realizing that pious cash is still cash.

Financial Trouble or Opportunity? The ROC’s Economic Landscape

Rumors have circulated about the ROC’s financial status, especially during last year’s pandemic, which forced church closures for two months. Though exact figures are hard to come by, 2014 estimates suggested the ROC’s annual profits were around $150 million. This leaves many speculating whether their rejection of digital currency may ultimately hinder their financial recovery.

The Wider Crypto Context in Russia

In a parallel realm, Russian lawmakers recently passed legislation giving cryptocurrencies legal status, but—plot twist—they still can’t be used as a payment method. President Vladimir Putin added to the conversation by requiring public officials to disclose their crypto holdings, causing quite the furor. Meanwhile, a Ministry of Labour letter even suggested officials liquidate their digital assets, painting a picture as perplexing as a mystery novel. What does any of this mean for the ROC? Likely a life lived in the slow lane of tradition amidst the fast lanes of technology.