Number of Russian Muslims converting to Christianity in the millions
ROME, November 7 (CNA) - According to the director of the
Inter-religious
Council in Russia, Roman Silantyev, in the last fifteen years two
million
Russian-born Muslims have converted to Christianity, while only 2,500
Russians have converted to Islam.
In an interview published by the magazine Itogi, Silantyev said, "This
phenomenon of Christianization is due not so much to the positive
results of
a successful missionary campaign as to the influence of Russian culture
and
its Christian roots."
The Kath.net news agency indicated that the converts are mainly
individuals
who were born into a Muslim family but did not necessary practice the
faith.
"On the other hand, those who really follow Muslim values and regularly
attend a mosque rarely abandon their religion," Silantyev noted.
Terrorism is another reason for the increase in conversions, he added.
"After each terrorist attack, thousands and even hundreds of thousands
become Christians," resulting in an almost 50% drop in the Muslim
population
in certain regions.