Unidentified masked men set fire to Ss Cyril and Methodius Church in Pavlograd (PHOTO)
"Police and firefighters arrived very quickly, – says the rector, Archpriest Andrei Demidas. – They found that 4 firebombs had been thrown into the church. One of them, which was targeted at the altar, thank God, did not work – the fuse fell out of it. But the other three caught fire, and the church suffered serious damage. Today I have to go to the police and write a report about what happened. "
The fire destroyed the choir with books, damaged walls and church utensils.
According to the priest, he had neither received any threats before nor encountered any hostility.
The Saints Cyril and Methodius Church was built 10 years ago on donations of parishioners. Believers are intending to restore it by join efforts. In spite of the fire, service in the church will continue.
The rector and parishioners of the church ask prayers of the faithful.
The UOJ is following the developments.
Read also
Four Mt. Athos Monks Injured in Greece Highway Accident
Four Athonite monks were injured in a highway accident, with one remaining in critical condition.
Pskov Caves Monastery Marks 20 Years Since Elder John’s Repose
The Pskov Caves Monastery commemorates Archimandrite John, honoring his life of labor, prayer, and spiritual guidance for generations of Russian Orthodox faithful.
Patr. Theodoros II Leads Historic Ecumenical Service in Panama
Patr. Theodoros II visits Panama, joining Orthodox in an historic prayer service promoting Christian unity.
Cherkasy Metropolitan Denounces Politically Motivated Charges
Metr. Theodosiy calls his criminal case politically motivated, defending UOC rights and warning of potential ECHR implications.
Patr. Theophilos III Meets Diplomats to Address Holy Land Crises
Patr. Theophilos III warns of rising attacks and restricted worship, urging protection of Christian communities and humanitarian access in the Holy Land.
Attendance Low after UOC Cathedral Transferred to OCU
Only a handful of worshippers attend Chernihiv’s Trinity Cathedral since the OCU took control.