Russian Church defrocks the priest who recorded video with Wagner Group
Photo: Vitaly Beliaev. Source: Kazan Reporter
Priest Vitaly Beliaev has been defrocked by the Russian Orthodox Church, according to the Orthodoxy in Tatarstan website.
Patriarch Kirill of the ROC confirmed the defrocking of Beliaev. The church court's decision stated that Beliaev was removed from his clerical duties due to violations of canons 17, 25, and 27 of the Holy Apostles and canon 9 of the Second Council of Constantinople.
Beliaev came under the scrutiny of the Kazan Eparchy's church court in February 2024 after he recorded a video in Kharkiv Oblast against the backdrop of Wagner Group flags. In the video, the priest accused church authorities of trying to prevent him from "supporting the Russian military".
As previously reported by the UOJ, another priest was defrocked by the ROC for refusing to recite a prayer for victory.
Read also
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.
Ukrainian Protodeacon Alleges False Prosecutions of Priests
Protodeacon Vadim Novinsky said that the vast majority of criminal cases opened against Ukrainian Orthodox Church clergy are fabricated, with the government threatening them to accept plea deals.
Abp. Mark Visits Holy Apostles Parish for Lenten Weekend
Abp. Mark’s visit blended worship, teaching, and encouragement during the Lenten journey.
Abp. Alexei Delivers Lenten Homily in Anchorage
A Lenten homily in Alaska called the faithful back to patient, step-by-step transformation in Christ.