Orthodox Church Will Aid Russian Authorities In Pursuing Debtors

AFP reported yesterday that Russia's Federal Bailiffs' Service is working with the Russian Orthodox Church to shame debtors and those delinquent in their alimony payments into paying up. On Sunday, the Church and FBS signed an agreement under which priests will use their "spiritual influence" to convince debtors that not paying back what is owed is equivalent to theft. FBS is also working with Buddhist and Muslim representatives in other areas of Russia to obtain similar cooperation in shaming debtors into meeting their obligations.