Soviet Georgia
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The Soviet Republic of Georgia authorizing a group of high school students to openly study religious history is yet another example of the tremendous gains being made on behalf of human rights in the Soviet Union (“Students in Soviet Georgia Take New Course--Religion,” Part I, Feb. 12).
Over the past 70 years, Soviet Christians and others have faced harassment, persecution--even imprisonment--for expressing their religious beliefs. Yet, despite the harsh persecution of believers, Christianity has continued to grow to an estimated 60 million believers throughout the Soviet Union today.
Times are changing. Religious prisoners are being released from labor camps. Bibles are being allowed to enter the country. A new spirit of hope and anticipation is infiltrating churches and synagogues.
One day, the Kremlin may recognize that encouraging religious expression will build a more productive society.
REV. ROBERT HAWLEY
U.S. Director
Open Doors With Brother Andrew
Santa Ana
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