On November 2, 2026, the free distance learning course "Fundamentals of Parish Social Service" was launched, organized by the Synodal Department for Church Charity and Social Service.
The course is intended for the assistants of rectors and deans in social work. The first lesson was conducted by Deacon Igor Kulikov, Head of the Social Ministry Department of the Synodal Department of Charity, Director of the Patriarchal Humanitarian Mission.
During the meeting, the participants discussed the basics of parish social service, its goals and objectives, as well as the role of a church social worker. Special attention was paid to volunteerism as an essential component of the parish's social activities.
"It is important not only to provide social assistance, but also to share their misfortune with their wards," stressed Deacon Igor Kulikov, noting that a social worker should not only organize assistance, but also set an example of active Christian charity himself.
The course program includes the main areas of parish social work: organizing humanitarian aid, attracting volunteers, helping the homeless, the elderly, people with disabilities, orphaned children, women in crisis, veterans of special military operations and their families. Participants will also learn about the basics of hospital ministry, addiction prevention, social engineering, grant financing, and information support for charity projects.
The training takes place online and will last until December 17th.
The Synodal Department for Charity conducts such courses annually. During their existence, more than 18,000 church social workers have already been trained.