Pomaz Y. Elimination of worshipping edifices of ROC as the direction of the government policy on religion in the Ukrainian SSR (mid 1940 - early 1970)

The thesis analyzes liquidation process of worshipping edifices of the ROC taking into account the socio-political transformations in the Ukrainian SSR in the mid 1940's - early 1970's. The reasons of forced reduction of religious network are defined. Different forms and methods of realization of state policy towards the ROC and the basic principles regarding worshipping edifices are determined. The periodization process of closing and elimination of religious structures is substantiated; regional policy of party-state structures especially towards the church facilities is defined. The tendency of activities of the authorities and the public in the field of sacred sites in the designated period is characterized. The conclusion that the process of liquidation of worshipping edifices in Ukraine, which was most pronounced in late 1950 - early 1960's, was marked by features of social and political transformations in the country and anti orientation of the state.