Abstract: The subject of this research is the key trends in activity of the Sisters of Mercy in Altai Krai, on the example of Alexander Nevsky Cathedral in Barnaul. This place has accumulated an extensive experience of rendering spiritual, humanitarian and social aid to the ill parishioners, however officially it was recognized since January 2019.  The Sisters of Mercy gather on the weekly basis, associate with the priest, read Akathist Hymn to the Holy Martyred Nun Elizabeth, visit the patients. The method of in-depth interview was selected for the analysis of activity of the Sisters of Mercy, as well as receive answers to the questions pertinent to suggested hypotheses. The research results allowed determining that sisterhood in Barnaul is currently relevant and not considered an innovation. It is also highlighted that the Sisters of Mercy from Alexander Nevsky Cathedral in Barnaul render assistance not only to the ill, elderly, orphans and multi-child families, but to all in need; however their care and spiritual support is focused mostly on bedridden patients and elderly people. The conducted analysis demonstrates active development of this direction and attraction of new people eager to help, as well as underlines the need for expanding the sisterhoods in Barnaul churches.

Abstract: This article examines the scientific research activity of students-sociologists in the context of development of regional sociology. Since Russian is a multiethnic country with diverse climatic conditions and peculiarities of development of separate regions, the examination of regional peculiarities of development of sociological knowledge is considered a relevant topic. The subject of this work is the research priorities of modern students of sociology in a regional university. The problem of youth involvement into science and formation of scientific research interests of this social group is important for the development of Russian science. The study was conducted via the method of content analysis of all releases of compilation of scientific articles of the faculty of Sociology of Altai State University “Sociology in the modern world: science, education, creativity”. The authors analyzed 352 articles of students and master’s degree students. It was determined that most often the students of sociology study the problem regarding the Russian society overall; the spheres of education, family, politics and youth problems also enjoy popularity. In top five are also the topics associated with theory, methodology of sociological knowledge, and problems of sociology of culture. The majority of articles carry theoretical character; but if they contain an empirical part, it is usually the original research of authors of the articles, rather than secondary data analysis. The research results may be valuable to other scholars engaged in this problematic.

Abstract: This article examines the problem relevant from the perspective of methodology of scientific analysis, as well as the practice of social life. The trend towards growing number of charity organizations and individual benefactors, functioning of charity as an effective tool for solving social and economic problems, distrust of population in the work of charity organizations led to the need for scientific analysis of population’s attitude towards charity in Altai Krai. As of today, such phenomenon has strongly establishes not only in the society and people’s consciousness, but also at the country level reflected in the regulatory acts, which emphasizes its importance. The attitude population towards charity work in Altai Krai was studied through the method of information gathering – questionnaire. The frame for sample selection consisted of the number of residents of Altai Krai. The conducted survey detected that the number of those taking part in charity is greater than those who are not. The prevailing types and forms of charity activity is monetary contributions to charity foundations and organizations, as well as targeted aid. As a result of this research, the authors established that the majority of population have positive attitude towards charity work. Most of the respondents have already participated in charity activity; while the rest are willing to take part, if the money are spent as intended or if their financial situation improves. The authors also note the gradual and stable increase in the number of charity organizations, foundations, philanthropists and volunteers, as well as the expansion of corporate charity.

Abstract: The subject of this study is the activity of the Orthodox charity services in the Republic of Belarus and the Republic of Kazakhstan. Particular attention is dedicated to volunteering, which not only provides financial aid to those in need, but also a “spiritual” recovery of the society. Therefore, special relevance gains the research of social institutions and forms of charity services, volunteering that have been engaged into this activity for a long time, such as the community Sisters of Charity and international social organizations. The authors examine the key directions in organization of the Orthodox charity services in the Republic of Belarus and the Republic of Kazakhstan. Emphasis is made on the fact that the goal of activity of such communities lies in combining the effective modern technologies of volunteering with the true Christian ministry to the neighbor, augmenting love, bringing into society the spirit of faith with good works and sacrificial service of others. The research results allow determining that the sisterhood and brotherhood of charity, International Red Cross and Red Crescent Movement coordinate and assist social initiatives of the Church in the Republic of Belarus and the Republic of Kazakhstan. The charity services are rapidly developing, as well as implement the effective methods for helping people in need.