Dumenko Accuses UOC of Pushing 'Russian World' Ideology

KYIV — On July 15, the 1037th anniversary of the Baptism of Kyivan Rus, Metropolitan Epifaniy Dumenko, head of the schismatic Orthodox Church of Ukraine, delivered a powerful homily at the Kyiv Pechersk Lavra, accusing the canonical Ukrainian Orthodox Church (UOC) of advancing the "Russian World" ideology. 

Speaking during the Divine Liturgy, he condemned this doctrine as a "heretical delusion" that conceals idolatry under the guise of Orthodoxy.

Epifaniy linked the Baptism of Rus to Ukraine’s spiritual and national identity, calling the 2019 Tomos of Autocephaly as liberation from foreign influence. He criticized the UOC’s historical ties to Russia, claiming it held the Pechersk Lavra "captive" until its seizure by the Ukrainian government.

Epiphany prayed for Ukraine’s victory against the "Russian empire of evil," calling for a just peace. 

The UOC has repeatedly condemned Russia’s invasion of Ukraine. It has also repeatedly distanced itself from the Moscow Patriarchate, which has no control over the UOC whatsoever. Metropolitan Onufriy, primate of the UOC, has also declared his Church’s independence from the MP.

Read also