Archpriest Mykola Syniuk Detained by Authorities in Ukraine

Photo: Chernivtsi Eparchy/Facebook

CHERNIVTSI, UKRAINE — As reported by UOJ-Ukraine, Archpriest Mykola Syniuk, a cleric of the Presentation Monastery in Chernivtsi, was reportedly detained by TRC authorities on January 7, 2026, according to local faithful on social media.

Members of the Chernivtsi-Bukovyna Eparchy of the Ukrainian Orthodox Church (UOC) have called on the Orthodox community to intensify prayers for Fr. Mykola’s safety and well-being during his detention. The appeal emphasizes the need for spiritual support amid ongoing difficulties faced by clergy in the region.

The faithful also requested prayers for Priest Fedor Hnytetskyi, who had previously been detained by local drafters, highlighting a growing concern among Orthodox believers regarding the treatment of clerics.

Archpriest Syniuk’s detention has prompted widespread attention within the Bukovyna Orthodox community, who are urging believers to unite in prayer for both priests and for the spiritual and physical protection of clergy serving in the Chernivtsi area.

Previously, the UOJ reported on UOC clergy illegally detained by Ukrainian recruitment officers. 

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