Zelensky gifts the Pope with an “icon” depicting void instead of Baby Jesus
Revika’s "Icon" "Loss". Photo: screenshot of the Vatican youtube channel
On May 13, 2023, during a meeting with the Pope, Volodymyr Zelensky presented the pontiff with an “icon” of the Mother of God with a black void instead of the Infant Jesus. The image is called “Loss of 2022-58”, its author is Ukrainian artist Oleksiy Revika, reports the Ukrayina Moloda resource. Despite the fact that journalists call Revika's work a "painting", it is very reminiscent of a parody of the Iberian Icon of the Most Holy Theotokos.
Revika himself claims on his Facebook page that “this is a work about the loss of Ukrainian children in the aggressive war unleashed by Russia against Ukraine. Glory to Ukraine!".
Recall that after meeting with the Pope, Zelensky said that Ukraine does not need mediators for negotiations.
Read also
Pro-Constantinople Outlet Reports on Violent Cathedral Seizure in Chernivtsi
An article from the Orthodox Times highlights rising attacks against UOC faithful and clergy amid escalating church property disputes.
Metropolitan Longin Alleges Assassination Plot Against Him
Bancheny hierarch claims a group from Ivano-Frankivsk was sent to kill him.
Archbishop of Cyprus: Decision on Metropolitan Tychikos’ Appeal Expected in August
Hierarch retains presumption of innocence amid ongoing review by Ecumenical Patriarchate.
Holy Cross Seminarians Conclude Pilgrimage with Spiritual Encounters in Thessaloniki and Mount Athos
Students reflect on ministry and heritage during the final days of the transformative journey.
Estonian Government Passes New Law Against Orthodox Church
New legislation would force the Estonian Orthodox Church to cut its ties with the Moscow Patriarchate. This is depsite the fact that the Estonian Church has been autonomous since 1993.
Over 100 Souls Received Into the Patriarchal Exarchate of Africa
The Russian Orthodox Church's missionary efforts bear fruit in Zambia and Cameroon.