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RESEARCH PRODUCT

The Lutheran and Roman Catholic Churches in Latvia

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Before World War II Latvia had several strong traditional religious communities: Lutheran, Roman Catholic, Baptist, Russian Old Believers and Orthodox. After the war, the Soviet regime extended the persecution of these communities eliminating the most disobedient clergymen and church members. The property of religious groups was nationalized, and many parishes were abolished. Even after the repressions, religious communities continued to be active. However, to preserve their faith, they had to seek compromises with the Soviet regime, including with the KGB. The chapter focuses on the two main Christian churches in Latvia, the Roman Catholic Church and the Evangelical Lutheran Church, explaining a nuanced history of their collaboration with the Soviets and the current view of the leaders of both churches on this dark past.