Abstract

The article analyzes the results of the author’s sociological research of public opinion of the population of Eastern Ukraine (Donetsk, Zaporizhia, Luhansk, Kharkiv regions ) on the role of the Ukrainian Orthodox Church of the Moscow Patriarchy in society. In the research special attention is paid to formation of public opinion about the existing and possible involvement of the Church in politics, performing the functions of social service. The Ukrainian Orthodox Church­Moscow Patriarchate enjoys a high level of trust among the residents of Eastern Ukraine both religious and social institution. So the UOC­MP is recognized by residents of the East of Ukraine as an institution that can protect them from injustice of the authorities, and therefore, in their opinion, can take part in politics. This may be evidence that Ukrainians see the Church as a spiritual mentor and active participant of public life. But secular power loses the trust of citizens, because it does not perform its duties of social justice in society. Analysis of public opinion of the population of Eastern Ukraine, also confirmed the thesis that the company behind the Church is the mission of social service.