Chernivtsi Bishop to Patriarch Bartholomew: Tomos Sparked Church Conflict

Metropolitan Meletiy appeals to Patriarch Bartholomew. Photo: UOJ's Ukrainian branch (SPZh)

CHERNIVTSI — Following an attempted takeover of the Holy Spirit Cathedral in Chernivtsi on June 17, 2025, by supporters of the Orthodox Church of Ukraine (OCU), Metropolitan Meletiy of the Ukrainian Orthodox Church (UOC) issued a strong public appeal to Patriarch Bartholomew and OCU leader Serhii (Epifany) Dumenko.

Metropolitan Meletiy blamed the Tomos of Autocephaly granted to the OCU by the Patriarch of Constantinople as the root cause of the ongoing religious strife, saying it “created the calamity we are witnessing today.” He criticized Dumenko’s supporters for seizing vibrant UOC parishes while their own churches, including in Dumenko’s native village, remain empty.

“If he thinks this will drive us into his so-called church, he is mistaken,” Meletiy stated, urging an immediate halt to the “lawlessness” and calling Dumenko to return to respectful dialogue. He also condemned the cessation of prayer and liturgical life in churches taken over by the OCU, adding, “They’ve halted worship, stopped the Divine Liturgies, and interfere with prayers for our soldiers who defend us in the East.”

Earlier, UOJ reported that UOC believers in Chernivtsi had retaken their cathedral after an attempted takeover by raiders.

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