Ukrainian Mayor: UOC Only 'Temporarily' Occupies Churches
Anatolii Bondarenko. Photo: 18000
CHERKASY — Anatolii Bondarenko, the mayor of Cherkasy who personally oversaw the seizure of several churches belonging to the Ukrainian Orthodox Church (UOC), stated that the remaining two UOC parishes in the city are only “temporarily” present in their churches.
“This is the fault of both the authorities and the communities," he said. "I think the Cherkasy community should soon correct its mistakes. After all, the decision was made long ago. One could say that representatives of the FSB–Moscow Patriarchate are only temporarily staying in those buildings."
He added that “everyone already understands that Ukraine must have a single, local, national Church.”
At present, out of 10 UOC churches in Cherkasy, eight have already been seized.
Previously, UOJ reported that human rights advocates circulated an appeal by Met. Theodosiy of Cherkasy and Kaniv addressed to Pat. Bartholomew of Constantinople.
Read also
Four Mt. Athos Monks Injured in Greece Highway Accident
Four Athonite monks were injured in a highway accident, with one remaining in critical condition.
Pskov Caves Monastery Marks 20 Years Since Elder John’s Repose
The Pskov Caves Monastery commemorates Archimandrite John, honoring his life of labor, prayer, and spiritual guidance for generations of Russian Orthodox faithful.
Patr. Theodoros II Leads Historic Ecumenical Service in Panama
Patr. Theodoros II visits Panama, joining Orthodox in an historic prayer service promoting Christian unity.
Cherkasy Metropolitan Denounces Politically Motivated Charges
Metr. Theodosiy calls his criminal case politically motivated, defending UOC rights and warning of potential ECHR implications.
Patr. Theophilos III Meets Diplomats to Address Holy Land Crises
Patr. Theophilos III warns of rising attacks and restricted worship, urging protection of Christian communities and humanitarian access in the Holy Land.
Attendance Low after UOC Cathedral Transferred to OCU
Only a handful of worshippers attend Chernihiv’s Trinity Cathedral since the OCU took control.