Why is the Russian Church supporting Putin in his war against Ukraine? Why does the Patriarch of Moscow believe that history is on Russia's side? And what are the implications for Christianity and Christian culture in the West? These are among the vital questions addressed in this timely book. Written by an internationally respected historian who is also an Orthodox believer, Holy Russia? Holy War? examines the way history and religion are being used to justify Putin's 'special military operation' in Ukraine. Katherine Kelaidis shows how Russia's understanding of its past continues to shape and direct the way it sees its future. This, she argues, is not only a problem for Ukraine. It is also a problem for all who value freedom, democracy, tolerance and the defence of human rights. Reading this book will lead you to a clearer understanding of why the defence of Ukraine is also the defence of Western freedom and values. It will also help you to see how differing views of the past can radically affect what happens in the present, how religion can so easily become corrupted at the service of militant nationalism, and how we must guard against it, wherever it appears. Contents PART ONE: Shadows of the past PART TWO: Who is Patriarch Kirill and why is he dangerous? PART THREE: This is not just a problem for Ukraine PART FOUR: The war will end but the causes and consequences will remain, so what can be done? CONCLUSION: Two modern Russian saints

While still relatively unknown to the general public, early twentieth century American horror author H.P. Lovecraft left an indelible stamp upon popular culture. Images of tentacled horrors, forbidden tomes, and protagonists struggling against the insanity that comes with the revelation of the terrible truth of reality-Lovecraft pioneered all of these. Best known for his short story "The Call of Cthulhu," Lovecraft instantiated his philosophy of cosmicism into every one of his tales. This collection of fourteen essays is the first sustained academic engagement with horror author H.P. Lovecraft from a theological perspective. Covering the major themes of Lovecraft's work such as nihilism, xenophobia, dark cults, and unimaginable horrors beyond the stars, the book is divided into five sections corresponding to each of the divisions of theology: biblical, historical, systematic, practical, and comparative. With responses ranging from admiration to critique, the contributors explore the dark uncharted regions of Lovecraft's dark mythology in the service of theological truth.