Metropolitan Longin: Two state expert examinations prove that I am innocent

Metropolitan Longin (Zhar) in front of the courthouse on May 21, 2024. Photo: screenshot from the Bancheny Monastery YouTube channel

Metropolitan Longin of Bancheny stated that there had been expert examinations proving his innocence. He shared this with the UOC believers who had come to support him in court in the city of Hertsa in Bukovyna on May 21.

"I have two state expert examinations exonerating me. i.e. proving that I am not guilty of what I am being accused of. Their examination is illegal. The person who wrote the expertise did not have a license or the right to do so," the bishop said.

The hierarch of the UOC also claims that the prosecution is altering the facts of the case and adding data that he has nothing to do with.

"They do not give me the right to speak, they changed everything... Mr. Prosecutor also added three letters: 'OCU,' which I never mentioned and will not mention because they mean nothing to me," emphasized the metropolitan.

The UOC hierarch also thanked everyone for their support and asked them to remain steadfast in their Orthodox faith.

As the UOJ reported, Metropolitan Longin asked believers to support him in court, assuming that the hearing on May 21 would be more challenging than previous ones.

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.