Why a man faces jail for playing on his phone in church

Putting your own religious beliefs aside, how should people behave in a religious institution?

Should they follow the ‘rules’ of the religion or do people have the right to do what they want?

A 21-year-old blogger is facing jail after playing Pokemon Go in a Russian Orthodox Church.

The man, Ruslan Sokolovsky is being accused of inciting religious hatred and insulting the feelings of religious believers.

He faces a possible seven and a half years in prison if convicted.

Ruslan filmed his Pokemon catching event and posted it on YouTube in August last year, and has since gained more than 1.6million views.

At the start of the video, he says to camera: “How can one offend by entering a church with a smartphone?” and refers to news reports warning player could be jailed for playing in churches.

“I decided to just catch some Pokémon in church because, why not? I believe it’s both safe and not prohibited by law. Let’s go.”

He was arrested a month later, but is still waiting final court proceedings.

Respect in church is more than showing reverence to God.

It is about following the customs like bowing, kneeling and the like.

Dress requires modesty and cell phones are not allowed.

Anyone found not following the rules of the courtroom can be found in contempt of court, resulting in a fine or even jail time.

Respect includes things like what you wear, not eating, drinking or talking, as well as standing for the magistrate or the judge when they enter the courtroom.

Over the years there has been a shift in the respect for both religious institutions and the law.

Many ask, why should I do something I don’t believe in.

What do you think. Does this guy deserve jail?