Top state officials attend OCU "service" at Lavra
Epifaniy Dumenko at the Kyiv-Pechersk Lavra. Photo: a screenshot of Freedom's YouTube channel
The head of the OCU, Epifaniy Dumenko, held his first "service" at the Dormition Cathedral of the Kyiv-Pechersk Lavra in Kyiv, reports the OCU on its Facebook page.
The "service" was attended by top state officials – Prime Minister Denys Shmyhal, Chairman of the Verkhovna Rada Ruslan Stefanchuk, Deputy Head of the Presidential Office Kyrylo Tymoshenko.
Volodymyr Zelenskyy was not present at the "service".
The event was broadcasted by the Ukrainian media, as well as on a screen set up in front of the cathedral.
Police units were on duty at the entrance to the cathedral. Representatives of Ukrainian security agencies checked the documents of those who wanted to enter the temple.
As reported, the OCU's "service" in Lavra was held under extra police protection.
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.