Annexed to the Soviet Union in 1940, it regained its independence on 9 February 1991. Today, its population looks to Europe with mingled fears and hopes. We discussed the matter with Father Gintaras Grusas, general secretary of the country’s Episcopal Conference. Together with Poland, Lithuania is one of the two countries of the former Soviet empire whose population is mainly Catholic (80%). “Of the various challenges that our country is tackling says Father Grusas many are linked to the post-Communist phase. The main problems are economic stability, the educational system which is in the process of renewal and the healthcare system. Lithuania is also having to cope with many social problems: a situation common to many post-Communist countries. The growth of unemployment (now affecting 10% of the population) is especially a cause for concern. All these factors have dampened people’s hopes after regaining their freedom and becoming a democracy after years of Soviet regime”. With what hopes are the people of Lithuania looking to Europe? “In general replies Father Grusas attitudes are rather favourable, in spite of doubts and fears”. The fears he explains especially concern “the changes in life styles that will be necessary”. Deep concern is being caused by the implications that EU membership may have for agriculture “the majority of the population is employed in farming” and also by its possible repercussions on the industrial system. Lithuania has a significant production of nuclear energy, but in June 2000 the EU and other countries helped to finance the closure of the nuclear power station at Ignalina. “The hope continues Father Grusas is especially that of being once again integrated in a Europe from which Lithuania was forcibly separated before the war”. And what about the Catholic Church? “The Church replies Father Grusas is keen to emphasize that attention to Europe must not weaken or remove the sense and tradition of the Christian values rooted in the culture and society of our country. And the Lithuanian bishops join with the bishops of Europe is encouraging the EU’s recognition of the role of religions in society”. Lithuania has a population of just over 3.5 million inhabitants, of whom 72% are Catholics, 2.5% Orthodox and 11.3% Protestant. There are 8 dioceses and 676 parishes. The clergy comprises 14 bishops, 670 priests and 104 religious. 545 schools are run by religious institutions.
