Yelensky accuses Orthodox Christians of "deafening silence" on Ukrainian war

Head of DESS, Viktor Yelensky. Photo: DESS website

On December 19, 2024, a conference titled “Current Issues in Ethnopolitics and Ensuring Freedom of Conscience in Ukraine: Domestic and European Experience” opened in Kyiv, organized by the State Service of Ukraine on Ethnopolitics and Freedom of Conscience (DESS). This was reported by the State Ethnopolitics website.

In his address, Viktor Yelensky, DESS head, stated, “Attention must be drawn to the astonishing silence of the Orthodox world regarding the most unjust war of the 21st century, unleashed by Russia.”

“This concerns how religion behaves during wartime. We see a striking difference in this regard compared to past centuries,” he emphasized.

Yelensky did not specify whose silence among Orthodox representatives he was referring to.

As previously reported by the UOJ, the Synod of the Ukrainian Orthodox Church published data on deceased priests and destroyed churches.

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.