EDUCATIONAL ACTIVITIES OF THE GREEK CATHOLIC CLERGY OF EASTERN GALICIA IN THE INTERWAR PERIOD

Abstract

Abstract. The purpose of the study is to analyze the main directions of the educational activities of the Greek Catholic Church in the context of the socio-economic, cultural and educational development of Ukrainians in Eastern Galicia in the interwar period. The methodology of the study is based on the principles of historicism, scientificity, objectivity, and systematicity. General scientific (analysis, synthesis, generalization) and special historical (historical-genetic, historical-systemic) methods were used. The scientific novelty lies in the comprehensive study and analysis of the stated topic and the introduction of archival materials into scientific circulation, which makes it possible to clarify the main directions of the educational activities of the Greek Catholic clergy of Eastern Galicia in the interwar period. Conclusions. The educational work of the Greek Catholic clergy in the economic, cultural, educational, and national spheres was the basis for preserving the original development of Ukrainians in Eastern Galicia. The priests' attention to pressing social problems and cooperation with cooperatives, economic organizations, and societies («Silskyi Hospodar», «Vidrodzhennia», «Dnister», etc.) contributed to the region's recovery after the war and helped the faithful improve their financial situation. Thanks to the Church's initiative, the number of private educational institutions with the native language of instruction increased. The publication of religious press and the supply of parish libraries with quality literature, including on moral and religious topics, allowed the spread of national and religious values.