Abbot comments on the betrayal of Lavra sacristan
The abbot of the Kyiv-Pechersk Lavra, Metropolitan Pavel. Photo: lavra.ua
The abbot of the Kyiv-Pechersk Lavra, Metropolitan Pavel of Vyshhorod and Chornobyl commented on the decision of the former sacristan of the monastery, Archimandrite Abramius, to move to the OCU.
“The days before Easter are coming, and the act of Judas, who betrayed him, and the end that awaited him, is known to all from the gospel story,” said the bishop.
Vladyka said that he tonsured Abramius as a monk and elevated him to new degrees. “As his relative said today, he was very harmed by a quick take-off. Perhaps, this is true,” the abbot said.
“God is his judge. He will receive everything from God,” the bishop emphasized. “Probably, the Mother of God weeded out such crafty people in her monastery.”
The metropolitan also urged the ex-sacristan to return the items of the monastery appropriated by him.
As reported, on March 29, 2023, Epifaniy Dumenko appointed Archimandrite Abramius, who moved to the OCU, "acting abbot" of the Kyiv-Pechersk Lavra. His Beatitude Metropolitan Onuphry of Kyiv and All Ukraine banned the former monk of the Lavra from ministry for falling into schism, without the right to commune with the Holy Mysteries of Christ.
Read also
Abducted Ukrainian Deacon Dies During Military Training
Abducted and conscripted Ukrainian deacon Orest Cherny, 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.