Filaret: Phanar ordered to destroy Kiev Patriarchate

Head of the UOC-KP Filaret Denisenko. Photo: Facebook video screenshot

On December 4, the head of the UOC-KP, Filaret Denisenko, in a video message on his Facebook page stated that Constantinople requires the destruction of the Kiev Patriarchate.

Denisenko believes that the granted Tomos places the Ukrainian Church in a position dependent on Constantinople, while the patriarchy defends its sovereignty. For this reason, the "patriarch" stated, "the task was given to Metropolitan Epiphany to eventually destroy the Kiev Patriarchate and the Kiev Patriarch as well."

According to the head of the UOC-KP, forceful seizures of temples are taking place in his church, with the priests kidnapped, intimidated and forced to join the OCU.

“Therefore, I am appealing to whoever it may be to lend your hand, help preserve the Kiev Patriarchate, help Ukraine have its own independent church,” the “patriarch” concluded his appeal.

As reported by the UOJ, earlier Filaret Denisenko accused TSN of spreading lies against the Kiev Patriarchate.

Read also

Abducted Ukrainian Deacon Dies During Military Training

Abducted and conscripted Ukrainian deacon Orest Black, known for his devotion and sacred singing, tragically died at age 46 during military training, leaving a legacy of faith and humility.

Court Hearing on Expulsion of Monks from Kyiv-Pechersk Lavra Postponed Again

A long-delayed monastery lawsuit against a sanctuary faces yet another indefinite postponement after the presiding judge went on sick leave.

OCA Clergy Gather for Winter Synaxis Focused on Renewal and Resilience

More than 100 OCA clergy gathered online for the Winter 2025 Synaxis to pray, learn, and reflect on sustaining pastoral ministry and avoiding burnout through renewal in Christ.

Trump Administration Moves to Ban Federally Funded Transgender Procedures for Minors

The Trump administration is moving to bar federally funded hospitals from performing transgender medical procedures on minors, citing evidence of harm and a duty to protect children.

Bp. Theodosius: Ukraine's Authorities Classify Icons as Works of Art and Relics as Mummies

ROCOR hierarch links current policies toward holy sites and clergy to Soviet-era repression, calls for prayer and respect for religious freedom.

Society of St. John's Day of Action Gives Hope Persecution of UOC May Subside, Analyst Says

Political scientist says congressional outreach and high-level U.S. statements signal possible shift in response to persecution of the Ukrainian Orthodox Church.