Witnessing to Christ through social engagement

This article examines the relationship between Christian witness and social engagement in the context of the war in Ukraine. Rooted in theological reflection grounded in concrete experience, it is offered by Constantin Sigov, a Ukrainian Orthodox scholar. The central argument holds that the Christian's social action cannot be reduced to ordinary humanitarian endeavor: it proceeds from an authentic encounter with the neighbor, identified with Christ himself. This encounter involves overcoming hatred and indifference, and requires a hope that exceeds purely human resources. On the theological level, the article articulates christology and social ethics by showing that service to the neighbor constitutes a form of confession of faith. It thus offers an Orthodox perspective on the question of Christian witness in times of armed conflict.