Holy Synod calls the condition for overcoming schism in Ukraine

At the solemn meeting of the Holy Synod held in Kharkov on May 27, the archpastors called the condition for overcoming the church schism in Ukraine.

The Message of the Holy Synod says, "Unfortunately, it is painful again to note the existence in Ukraine of the problem of church schism that breaks the unity of the mystical Body of Christ. Overcoming the church schism is possible only through frank and sincere dialogue. However, today, in the situation of undisguised aggression on the part of the Kiev Patriarchate, the dialogue has become impossible. The first step to it should be the rejection of forceful actions and aggressive rhetoric. All illegally seized church property must be returned to its rightful owners. Only after specific actions, which confirm peaceful intentions and declarations, we can talk about the beginning of a real dialogue."

The Most Reverend Archpastors also stated that for the time being it is the Ukrainian Orthodox Church that is the most numerous denomination of the country. "It unites people of different nationalities, different political preferences, different cultures, really proving that in the Kingdom of God "there is neither Hellenes nor Jew, circumcision nor uncircumcision, Barbarian, Scythian, bond nor free, but Christ is all and in all" (Col. 3:11), " says the Message. "Our Church is represented in all regions of Ukraine. And even in those regions that are temporarily uncontrollable to the government of Ukraine, it continues to perform its saving ministry."

The archbishops called on the believers to keep peace, "Whatever trials fall upon our Church, we must always preserve both church and civil peace and peace in our soul. We must offer sincere prayers for our offenders so that the Lord will open the way to reconciliation and harmony."

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