Chancellor: UOC status has never prevented it from leading people to God
Metropolitan Anthony (Pakanych), the UOC Chancellor. Photo: a screenshot of Met. Anthony’s YouTube channel
Metropolitan Anthony of Boryspil and Brovary said in an address published on his YouTube channel that the status of the Ukrainian Orthodox Church has never prevented it from leading people to God.
Commenting on the appeal of a group of clergy to His Beatitude Metropolitan Onuphry with a demand to convene a Council of Bishops of the UOC to proclaim autocephaly, Metropolitan Antony said: "Let's be frank: the status of the Ukrainian Orthodox Church has never prevented it from fulfilling its direct duty of leading people to God."
"Everything else is politicking, emotion and speculation, which are far from the essence of Orthodoxy," he stressed and recalled that from time immemorial persecutors "have attempted to prevent the mission of the Church under any pretext".
Earlier, Metropolitan Anthony said that the UOC has no right to push God-entrusted people into schism despite intimidation and repression.
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.