Filaret adherents in Crimea pass off shopping premises as a church, – media

Head of the State Committee of the Crimea for International Relations Zaur Smirnov said that the situation around the church of the Holy Equal-to-the-Apostles Princes Olga and Vladimir of the Kiev Patriarchate in the centre of Simferopol is not related to religious activity, but has an economic and legal character. The official reports this to RIA-Novosti.

According to Smirnov, the bailiffs execute the court's decision: they are requisiting into the republic ownership part of the premises that was leased. We are talking about the first floor, the lease of which expired in January.

"Directly that part of the building where the church is located, on the second floor, no one is touching," said Zaur Smirnov.

According to the investigation conducted by the UOJ, on the first floor of the building, which the KP passed off as the diocesan administration, since 2004 there have been operating offices, pharmacies and a confectionery shop.

Read also

Metr. Saba Addresses Christ on Church Failings and Humility

Metr. Saba addresses Christ in a prayerful encyclical, seeking guidance for humility and faithful leadership.

Orthodox Pro-Life Vigils in New York Mark Years of Prayer and Outreach

Orthodox Christians Pro-Life continues monthly prayer services, celebrating lives saved and closures of local abortion centers.

Patr. Theophilos Urges Israel to Reopen Holy Sepulchre

Church leaders urge Israel to allow full access to the Holy Sepulchre for Paschal celebrations amid ongoing restrictions.

Trump Welcomes Abp. Elpidophoros to the White House for Greek Independence Day

Abp. Elpidophoros highlighted enduring U.S.–Greek ties as President Trump hosted a landmark Independence Day celebration at the White House.

New Review Challenges OCA Report on Priest Availability

A new critique challenges optimistic claims that the OCA can avoid a looming clergy shortage.

Bp. Andrei Presides at Canadian Parish Recently Affected by Fire

Parish of St. Nicholas marks beginning in new location after loss of former place of worship.