Lavra abbot: I was told in SBU to recognise Epifaniy
Metropolitan Pavel in the Kyiv-Pechersk Lavra. Photo: UOJ
On June 29, 2023, the next court hearing in the case of Metropolitan Pavel, the Lavra abbot, was to take place. However, the hearing was postponed until 6 July because the prosecutor did not come.
In the courtroom, Metropolitan Pavel said that law enforcers promised him criminal prosecution if he did not recognize the head of the OCU, Epifaniy Dumenko. A video of the bishop's words was posted by the First Cossacks' Telegram channel.
"I was summoned to the SBU and the museum and told – compromise, recognise Epifaniy. This has never happened and will never happen, because I know what a schism is. We still have the Supreme Court," the bishop said.
According to him, he was told by the SBU that when he was removed from the monastery, the brethren would join the OCU. But this did not happen.
Earlier Dumenko said that anyone who wants to live as a monk in the Lavra can do so.
Read also
YouTube Deletes Channel of Greek UOJ
Greek branch of Union of Orthodox Journalists condemns move as censorship and an attempt to silence a voice defending Orthodoxy.
Texas Gov. Cracks Down on Abortion Pill
The legislation targets a “global abortion pill syndicate." Exemptions allow for legitimate medical uses, like treating ectopic pregnancies.
Ukraine Ramps Up Efforts to Ban UOJ Globally
UOJ’s website has been blocked in Ukraine since 2022, and recent moves target its global reach, including the recent removal of its Greek-language YouTube channel.
Kimberly Guilfoyle Welcomes EP to Capital
Amb. Guilfoyle celebrated thwe "unbreakable bonds between the United States, Greece, and the global Orthodox Christian community."
Visit of Pat. Bartholomew Continues with Vespers in Hamptons
Met. Maximos of Selyvria presided over the service at the Dormition of the Virgin Mary Greek Orthodox Church of the Hamptons.
Pat. Bartholomew Holds Audience With Young Adult Leaders
Fr. Barnabas Powell and Abp. Elpidophoros spoke before an emotional Bartholomew shared his pride in the young Greek Orthodox community.