Dnipro Court Postpones Hearing in Case of Metr. Arseny

Photo: Press Service of the Sviatohirsk Lavra

DNIPRO — On May 13, 2026, a scheduled hearing at the Chechelivskyi District Court of Dnipro in the case of Metr. Arseny of Svyatogorsk, vicar of the Svyatogorsk Lavra, was postponed amid procedural disputes and visible support from clergy and faithful. The Metropolitan participated in the session via video conference, while monks and nuns from the Lavra and its skete served a cathedral prayer service. Supporters of the Ukrainian Orthodox Church (UOC) also gathered at the courthouse, where Metr. Arseny briefly blessed those present before proceedings began.

During the session, a newly assigned prosecutor appeared in court, a change not recognized by the defense team. Lawyers submitted a formal complaint regarding a resolution of the Donetsk Regional Prosecutor’s Office that altered the group of prosecutors handling the case. The defense argued that the sudden change raised procedural concerns and requested that the hearing be postponed to ensure proper consideration of the issue.

The court agreed to adjourn the session. Defense representatives noted that, given the circumstances, they would not immediately pursue a motion to relax restrictions imposed on the Metropolitan, though such a request could be raised at a later hearing. The court also acknowledged existing permissions allowing Metr. Arseny to attend church services on his name day, May 21, and to undergo medical procedures. The next hearing is scheduled for June 11 at 1:00 p.m., while supporters continue to request prayers for the Metropolitan and the Lavra community.

Previously, the UOJ reported that, according to Romfea, the U.S. played a leading role in Metr. Arseny’s release.

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