Abstract
The author analyzes sectarian (Protestant) and Russian Orthodox religious communities on the basis of field work carried out in various regions of the Ukraine during 1963- 1965. Scholars were aided by Communist Party propagandists, and results were discussed at a republican conference in December 1965. The author demonstrates that the western regions of the Ukraine (which were incorporated into the Soviet Union later than the eastern regions) have higher percentages of young people in religious congregations. Religious tradition and education within the family are important factors in this respect, particularly among sectarian groups. The reasons for joining a religious group, or for switching affiliation, are discussed, with statistics given.