Tests with Relics Conducted at the Lavra, Says Ministry of Culture

Far Caves of the Lavra. Photo: Kyiv-Pechersk Lavra website

KYIV — The microbiological laboratory of Sumy State University “ECOMEDKHIM” conducted “tests” on the relics of the Venerable Fathers of the Caves in the Far Caves of the Kyiv-Pechersk Lavra, reported the Lavra’s lawyer, Archpriest Nikita Chekman, publishing the Ministry of Culture’s response to his legal inquiry.

According to Deputy Minister Serhiy Belyaev, the protocols of the “tests” conducted on July 7, 2025, by the microbiological laboratory were carried out “in accordance with the Action Plan for the Preservation of the Far Caves (building No. 91), approved by the order of the Reserve on July 28, 2025.”

Belyaev stated that the “tests” on relics were conducted as part of the work of the Ministry of Culture’s commission, established in March 2025.

The Deputy Minister refused to provide any further information about the “tests,” citing section 3 of the order establishing the commission, which states that this information is classified as restricted access.

Previously, UOJ reported that Metropolitan Luke of Zaporozhye had denounced the actions at the Kyiv Caves Lavra and warned of sacrilege disguised as culture.

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