Melnichuk M. Peсuliarities of Transformation of the Role of Art in Christian Cult

The dissertation researches social and spiritual sources, social and religious practice, peculiarities of transformation of art in christian cult in terms of philosophy, religious studies, historiosophy and art. Based on this analysis the dissertation presents religion and art pattern during the historical development which not only interacted, but penetrated into each other, creating specific cultural phenomenon which is called religious art. In this historical process religion "choses" the kind of art that might create, develop and carry spiritual atmosphere and cult practices. It is substantiated that, the suggestive influence of sacred art is indicated not by dogma and religious rites but cognitive features of the man in the process of aesthetic setting in the world. Sacred art is shown as a self-specific object that has a large force of psychological effects on humans and provides an opportunity to formulate a new concept - "religious catharsis". The dissertation considers the reasons for the transformation of sacred art, and the modernization of christianity. The applicant forecasts the prospects of development of art in christian cult in contemporary global problems and spiritual crisis.