Priest on persecution of UOC: This is only possible in totalitarian states

Archpriest Oleksandr Klymenko. Photo: a screenshot of the priest's YouTube channel

When asked by a journalist about the reaction of the Local Churches to the events around the UOC, Archpriest Oleksandr Klymenko noted that they (Churches – Ed.) are coming to their senses after the news about the fight with the Church in Ukraine. The priest said this at a press conference held at the Kyiv-Pechersk Lavra on December 15, 2022.

"For the European world of the last century this is nonsense, this is something unfamiliar neither in legal terms nor in state-religious relations. We understand that this could only happen in totalitarian states. And we see a dissonance between what our country declares in terms of European aspirations and what is actually happening," Fr Oleksandr added.

As reported, according to the expert, discrediting the UOC is contrary to Ukraine’s national interests.

Read also

Governor of Mount Athos invites President Trump to Holy Mountain

The Greek official expressed confidence that Donald Trump, who has shown interest in Orthodoxy, will visit Mount Athos during his trip to Greece.

Pat. Bartholomew: Tradition Is 'Not Conservative but Creative'

The EP then praised Vatican II and its architects, including French theologians Henri de LYves Congar. 

Trisagion Service Held for 107th Anniversary of Fr. Nicola Yanney’s Repose

The “Apostle to the Plains” has a strong case for canonization and is venerated by an ever-growing number of Orthodox Christians.

Eastern Christian Leaders Gather at St. John the Baptist Monastery in U.K.

Bishops and clergy from Orthodox, Eastern Catholic, and Oriental Churches discuss shared concerns and unity in witness across the United Kingdom.

U.S. State Department's Michael Rigas Visits Mount Athos Ahead of Energy Conference

Greek-American official with Orthodox roots spends 24 hours on the Holy Mountain before joining Ambassador Guilfoyle in Athens.

Kimberly Guilfoyle Expresses Desire to Learn More About Greek Orthodoxy

New U.S. Ambassador to Greece expresses admiration for Greek Orthodoxy and commitment to strengthening bilateral ties.