AFU soldier: Demonisation of the Church is a path to internal strife
Military serviceman Bohdan Grafov said that the fight against the UOC leads to the division of society. Photo: a video screenshot on the Telegram channel "Laymen – Defenders of Ukraine".
On 12 December 2022, an AFU soldier, Bohdan Grafov, recorded an appeal in support of the Ukrainian Orthodox Church, in which he urged the authorities to stop the persecution of the UOC. The video message was posted by the Telegram channel "Laymen – Defenders of Ukraine".
"In times of war, I consider such things inappropriate and only divisive for society," Bohdan said. He reminded the authorities that collaborators and manifestations of Russophilia can be fought within the law.
"Demonising the entire Church is the way to internal strife; it is an encroachment on the sacred for many. I hope that the authorities will be wise enough to solve all acute issues constructively, without hurting the feelings of believers," stressed the serviceman.
Read also
EXCLUSIVE: ROCOR Weighs Canonization of Its First U.S.-Born Saint
Abp. Gabriel of Montreal and Canada speaks to UOJ-USA about the commission to investigate the life of Fr. Seraphim Rose.
Metr. Shio Receives Church Leaders in Tbilisi
Orthodox delegations gathered in Tbilisi to honor Patr. Ilia II and affirm unity among the Churches.
Abp. Mark Visits Pennsylvania Parish for Lenten Services
Abp. Mark’s visit strengthened Coal Region faithful during their Lenten journey.
Metr. Saba Appeals for Lebanon Relief Donations
Metr. Saba calls for urgent donations to aid displaced families in Lebanon.
New Orthodox Parish School Set to Open in Pennsylvania
"The School has been in the prayers of St. John Chrysostom Orthodox Church since the community's founding in 1992," a press release states. "Through God, all things are possible!"
Ancient Monastic Complex Found in Egypt
A newly discovered Egyptian site highlights the scale and sophistication of early monastic life.