ZDENĚK R. NEŠPOR
SOCIOLOGICKÝ ÚSTAV AKADEMIE VĚD ČESKÉ REPUBLIKY
INSTITUTE OF SOCIOLOGY OF THE CZECH ACADEMY OF SCIENCES
THE IDENTITY AND FUTURE OF THE CZECHOSLOVAK HUSSITE CHURCH: A SOCIOLOGICAL SURVEY
Abstract: Historical and sociological research on the Czechoslovak Hussite Church, conducted on
its centenary, revealed dramatic decline and a number of internal problems of this community.
This led the author to a qualitative sociological research among pastors and bishops about recent
troubles, identity and future direction of their church. The research showed a significant divergence
of dioceses, with a rather traditionalist, inward-looking representatives preferring (modern) Hussite
identity on one side, and broader spectrum of their critics striving for more open, “generally Christian”
attitudes on the other. At the same time, the opinions and actions of the actors are related to their
origins and experiences. Although the alternative stream seems to be wider now, it is not unified
and so far losses (including the election of the patriarch in 2021). However, further development can
be expected in the near future, while the decline of church members will presumably continue alike.
Keywords: Czechoslovak Hussite Church; religious identity; contemporary religion; Czech Republic
– religion; sociology of religion
THEOLOGICAL REVIEW, Vol. 93, 2022, No. 3 – 4, Number of Article 4, p. stránka 326 – 344.
DOI: 10.14712/12117617.93.3-4.4