Socialism and Christianity by the New Hieromartyr Hilarion

This episode of The Libertarian Institute explores the theological and political critique of socialism by New Hieromartyr Hilarion Troitsky, a prominent Russian Orthodox theologian and bishop who was martyred under the Soviet regime. The host provides a detailed biography of Hilarion, highlighting his scholarly rigor, unwavering commitment to ecclesiastical purity, and steadfast defense of the Patriarchate during the turbulent years of the Russian Revolution and Soviet persecution. The core of the episode centers on Hilarion’s 1920s pamphlet, 'Christianity and Socialism,' in which he argues that socialism is not merely incompatible with Christianity but is fundamentally its adversary. He dissects socialist ideology as a materialist, atheistic worldview that seeks to dismantle religious faith, moral absolutes, and spiritual truth, citing explicit declarations from socialist leaders like Bebel and Liebknecht affirming their intent to eradicate religion. The host emphasizes that Hilarion’s argument remains profoundly relevant today, as modern attempts to reconcile Christianity with socialism—such as 'Christian socialism'—are, in his view, ideological distortions that betray both faith and truth. The episode concludes with a call for the Church to clearly and boldly declare socialism as an enemy of Christ, not a partner in His mission.