Lavra abbot to the authorities: We will stand our ground to the last man

Metropolitan Pavel (Lebed). Photo: a screenshot from the YouTube channel of the Kyiv Caves Lavra

Metropolitan Pavel (Lebed), the abbot of the Kyiv Caves Lavra, said that a statement in which he asked on behalf of the brethren to allow the monks and faithful to meet Easter in the monastery went unanswered.

"However, the other day it was suggested to me again to conspire against the Church, but I gave a firm answer that this would not happen. Then one of the people who was there said to the director of the sanctuary: 'So, the Minister of Culture shouldn’t give his consent to the monks to stay at the Lavra for another month and a half,'" the abbot said.

It has become known that the authorities are putting pressure on the judges, as a result of which the third judge recuses himself from the lawsuit, which was filed by the lawyers in order to prevent the eviction of the monks from the Lavra. In connection with this, Metropolitan Paul appealed to the authorities to stop the pressure on the court and the faithful.

"There can be no compromises in matters of faith. We will stand to the last, the law is on our side," the vicar said.

As a reminder, the Kyiv Caves Lavra has filed a lawsuit against the actions of the Ministry of Culture to terminate the lease agreement.

Read also

Abp. Georgios on Met. Tychikos: Health Is One Thing, Synod Decisions Are Another

Holy Synod of Cyprus awaits Met. Tychikos’ return from Athens as decisions affirmed by Constantinople move forward.

Court Postpones Hearing on State’s Bid to Ban Kyiv Metropolis of UOC Once Again

The next hearing will take place on Dec. 11, 2025. This marks the second time the hearing has been postponed.

Head of ROCOR’s Bethany School for Girls to Tour U.S. Parishes This Fall

Nun Maria (Valle) to speak on Orthodox education and the challenges facing Christians in the Holy Land.

Met. Maximilian of Irkutsk Visits Alaska, Strengthening Historic Orthodox Ties

Weeklong journey highlights shared spiritual heritage and fellowship across the Diocese of Sitka and Alaska.

Holy Trinity Greek Orthodox Church in Indiana Consecrated by Abp. Elpidophoros

Ceremony marks milestone of faith and renewal for Fort Wayne parish.

Polish Synod Calls for Convening of Pan-Orthodox Council

In addition to the topic of Orthodox unity, the Synod also addressed cooperation with other confessions and domestic matters.