What was the impact of Bolshevik rule on the Russian Orthodox Church?

• A. The church remained fully autonomous and protected by law.
• B. Orthodox Church properties were taxed but maintained authority.
• C. Bolsheviks nationalized church property, reduced religious influence, and promoted secular governance.
• D. The church gained ownership of state industries.

Answer: (C)

Bolshevik rule aimed to create a secular, state-controlled society, viewing organized religion as a rival source of power. After the revolution, the state moved quickly to undermine the church’s economic and political position. Church property and assets were nationalized, cutting off the church from much of its wealth and legal authority. Religious education and influence in public life were sharply reduced as the state promoted secular governance and ideology. Campaigns to undermine religious belief, along with formal separation of church and state, reinforced the view that religious institutions should not wield political or social power.

This makes the statement describing nationalization of church property, a diminished religious influence, and promotion of secular governance the best fit. The church did not remain fully autonomous or legally protected, nor did it gain ownership of state industries, and it did not simply face taxation while keeping authority.