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
UOC Hierarch: The Church Does Not Endorse 'Holy War' Concept
"The assertion that the so-called 'special military operation' is a 'Holy War' contradicts the basic principles of Christian morality," Metr. Yevlohiy said.
Georgian Bishops Finalize Procedures for Patriarchal Election
Head of public relations for the Georgian Church says bishops finalized election procedures while emphasizing unity ahead of the patriarchal council.
SVS Press Releases New Volume by St. Maximus the Confessor
The publisher's new St. Maximus volume explores the theological foundations of Orthodox Christology and the defense of Chalcedon.
Abp. Daniel Announces Synodal Clergy Awards in Chicago Diocese
The Orthodox Church in America's Synodal awards recognized clergy across multiple ranks for dedicated service in the Midwestern diocese.
Registration Opens for First OCA-Wide Clergy Wives Retreat
The Orthodox Church in America’s first churchwide clergy wives retreat aims to strengthen ministry families through prayer, fellowship, and renewal.
Kimberly Guilfoyle Meets Ecumenical Patriarch in Athens
Kimberly Guilfoyle’s meeting with Patr. Bartholomew highlighted support for religious freedom and the global mission of the Orthodox Church.