Preparation Of Clergy For Interaction With Public Authorities And NGOs Discussed At The Moscow Theological Academy

On February 18, 2026, a round table dedicated to improving the educational module "The System of Public Power and Features of NGO Activities" was held at the Moscow Theological Academy. The event was organized as part of the ongoing cooperation between the MThA and the Institute of Public Administration and Management (IPAM) of RANEPA.

The main topic of the discussion was strengthening the practical component of training aimed at preparing students of theological schools for effective work within the public power system and the non-profit sector. Participants discussed the introduction of case studies based on real management situations into the educational process and the application of an interdisciplinary approach. Special attention was paid to the social mission of the Russian Orthodox Church, including assistance to people in difficult life situations, the preservation of cultural heritage, and support for civil initiatives.

Opening remarks were delivered by Bishop Kirill of Sergiev Posad and Dmitrov, Rector of the MThA, and Ruslan Korchagin, Director of the IPAM of the Presidential Academy. Key reports were presented by Tigran Zanko, Deputy Director of IPAM, and Priest Pavel Lizgunov, Pro-rector for Academic Work at the Moscow Theological Academy.

The event was attended by the deans of the Sergiev Posad Diocese, as well as a guest of honor - Lieutenant General of the Internal Service Igor Malyi, Assistant to the Minister of the Russian Federation for Civil Defence, Emergencies and Elimination of Consequences of Natural Disasters, who oversees issues of interaction between the department and NGOs.

As the organizers noted, the feedback received during the round table from clergy with practical experience working with non-profit organizations will be used to refine the educational module. Its re-implementation for academy students is planned for 2026.

The discussion participants emphasized that the integration of spiritual education and modern management competencies allows future clergy to gain a deeper understanding of the principles of public administration and the mechanisms of interaction with civil society institutions, which is necessary for successful social service in modern conditions.

Source: Bogoslov.RU / MThA Press Office