Insider: Phanar exploits war to prepare new church structure for Ukraine

The Constantinople Patriarchate has decided tacitly to create another church jurisdiction in Ukraine, separated from both the Russian Orthodox Church and the OCU. According to the UOJ sources, priests who refuse to commemorate Patriarch Kyrill in conditions of war but who see no possibility to unite with the schismatics will be lured into it.

The first throw-in on the subject was made the other day by an active apologist for the Ukrainian schism, Archimandrite Kirill (Govorun) of the ROC. He wrote that Patriarch Bartholomew of Constantinople allowed UOC clerics who refused to commemorate the Primate of the Russian Orthodox Church to commemorate him – without joining the OCU or any additional canonical procedures.

There has not been any official confirmation or statement from the Phanar about this. However, church circles are actively engaged in talks and probing bishops about the possibility of leaving the jurisdiction of the UOC. In the first place, the eparchies that refused to commemorate the Primate of the Russian Orthodox Church are being considered.

As reported, some UOC bishops blessed clerics not to commemorate Patriarch Kyrill during services.

Read also

UOC Hierarch: The Church Does Not Endorse 'Holy War' Concept

"The assertion that the so-called 'special military operation' is a 'Holy War' contradicts the basic principles of Christian morality," Metr. Yevlohiy said.

Georgian Bishops Finalize Procedures for Patriarchal Election

Head of public relations for the Georgian Church says bishops finalized election procedures while emphasizing unity ahead of the patriarchal council.

SVS Press Releases New Volume by St. Maximus the Confessor

The publisher's new St. Maximus volume explores the theological foundations of Orthodox Christology and the defense of Chalcedon.

Abp. Daniel Announces Synodal Clergy Awards in Chicago Diocese

The Orthodox Church in America's Synodal awards recognized clergy across multiple ranks for dedicated service in the Midwestern diocese.

Registration Opens for First OCA-Wide Clergy Wives Retreat

The Orthodox Church in America’s first churchwide clergy wives retreat aims to strengthen ministry families through prayer, fellowship, and renewal.

Kimberly Guilfoyle Meets Ecumenical Patriarch in Athens

Kimberly Guilfoyle’s meeting with Patr. Bartholomew highlighted support for religious freedom and the global mission of the Orthodox Church.