Metr. Seraphim Expresses Deep Respect for Metr. Onuphry
Metropolitan Seraphim of Kythira. Photo: UOJ-Greece
KYTHIRA, GREECE — Metr. Seraphim of Kythira, of the Church of Greece, has voiced strong support for the canonical Ukrainian Orthodox Church (UOC) while firmly rejecting the leadership of the state-backed Orthodox Church of Ukraine (OCU). In an interview with Vima Orthodoxias, the hierarch expressed deep respect for Metr. Onuphry, Primate of the UOC, saying, “We deeply respect him, and I commemorate him with all my heart.”
Metr. Seraphim spoke candidly about the ongoing persecution of the UOC, calling it “barbarism” and “disgusting actions” that cause suffering to all Orthodox faithful. He lamented the plight of Ukrainians, emphasizing, “May God grant that this drama of the Ukrainian people comes to an end. A terrible drama.”
The hierarch also addressed his stance toward the OCU and its head, Epiphany Dumenko. He stated he does not commemorate Epiphany, refuses to concelebrate with those who do, and regards the schismatic actions as uncanonical—a position he has maintained since 2018-2019.
Previously, the UOJ reported that Patr. Daniel said that Bulgarian Church faced no pressure on Ukraine issue.
Read also
OCU Orders Clergy to Hold All-Night Vigils
Rivne OCU leadership mandates clergy to hold evening vigils, prompting criticism over forced services and sparse attendance.
ROCOR First Hierarch Consecrates Bishop of Boston
Metr. Nicholas consecrated Archimandrite Michael (Crowley) as Bishop of Boston at Holy Trinity Monastery in Jordanville.
Washington Archdiocesan Choir Debuts Liturgical Recording
The Archdiocesan Choir of Washington, D.C. has released Orthodox America , a new album of English-language hymns by American composers.
Metr. Seraphim Expresses Deep Respect for Metr. Onuphry
Greek Metr. Seraphim condemns UOC persecution and refuses recognition of the OCU head.
Patr. Daniel Commemorates "Grandpa" Dobri on Eighth Anniversary of Repose
Bulgaria’s Patr. Daniel led a memorial for Elder Dobri, honoring his lifelong asceticism and charitable works.
Abp. Elpidophoros Celebrates Liturgy at 49th Folk Dance and Choral Festival
The 49th Folk Dance and Choral Festival (FDF) opened its final day with a Divine Liturgy emphasizing faith, unity, and the festival theme of “SHINE.”