VOLUNTEERISM AS A MANIFESTATION OF THE SOCIAL FUNCTIONALITY OF RELIGIOUS INSTITUTIONS AND ORGANIZATIONS

Abstract

The article demonstrates that throughout human history, religion has fulfilled the function of affirming the social existence of the individual under conditions of their contradictory dual nature (mortal and immortal, natural and social, rational and irrational). This is argued on the basis that such a function is обусловлена (determined) by the endowment of society with a sacred collective foundation through the affirmation of a common transcendent ideal - God - which encompasses the entire universe of human essence and existence. It is noted that the implementation of the social function of the religious phenomenon also presupposes the direct participation of believers in addressing socially significant issues, with the aim of supporting vulnerable population groups and promoting social stability. The article proves that religious institutions and organizations, as structural elements of civil society, play a significant role in the volunteer movement. The specific features of church volunteer activity and its main directions are analyzed. It is emphasized that the volunteer activity of religious institutions and organizations enables them to move beyond purely ritual practices and integrate into the structures of modern civil society.