Chernihiv official: Nuns are deluded they will stay in convents forever

Natalia Rebrova, Director of the Chernihiv Reserve. Photo: screenshot from the Chernihiv Media Group YouTube channel

Natalia Rebrova, director of the Ancient Chernihiv Reserve, stated that her staff frequently conflicts with elderly nuns of the UOC's Yeletsky Convent because the nuns are under the illusion that they will remain there forever. The interview with Rebrova was published by Pechera.

According to Rebrova, reserve employees often appear on the church grounds to "carry out the work they are supposed to do." She acknowledged that the nuns are not pleased with their presence but claimed that their residence in the convent is allegedly illegal.

"The convent's leadership has taken elderly nuns hostage and is manipulating them," the official asserted.

She added that the nuns are "captives of propaganda and the belief that they will remain there forever."

"We hear them say, 'We will return,'" Rebrova said, recounting conversations with the nuns of the Yeletsky Convent, accompanied by a sarcastic smile.

A journalist remarked that, on a human level, the situation is understandable since the nuns live in their shrine and wish to follow their religious beliefs.

Rebrova disagreed: "If you live in a state, are a citizen of this state, and love this state, then you must abide by its laws. On a human level, mistakes can be understood, but when the actions are deliberate, it is very difficult to comprehend," she stated.

Earlier, the UOJ reported that the Supreme Court denied the UOC the right to use the Yeletsky Convent in Chernihiv.

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.