“These are our premises”: Reserve is set to seal other Lavra buildings
The reserve is trying to seize other premises of the Lavra. Photo: "Lavra now"
On August 10, 2023, representatives of the reserve came with the police to seal the remaining buildings of the Kyiv-Pechersk Lavra. The video was posted on the Lavra Now telegram channel. “Godless vultures are already near Building 54,” the message says.
Acting Director of the Kyiv-Pechersk Lavra Reserve Maxym Ostapenko and his deputy Oleksandr Ovchar approached the 54th building, where the pilgrims and several monks of the brethren live.
“What are you standing here for? These are our premises,” Ovchar told the believers who were reading prayers in front of the building. The people replied that the court's decision on the dispute between the monastery and the reserve had not entered into force, and therefore Ostapenko and Ovchar had nothing to do there. The pilgrims called them Bolsheviks, who act like Russian invaders. A woman from the reserve team tried to break inside, but they did not let her in. The commission left empty-handed.
Earlier, the UOJ wrote that the UOC protested against the intentions of the Ministry of Culture to seal the buildings of the Kyiv-Pechersk Lavra.
Read also
Wonderworking Hawaiian Iveron Icon Makes Historic First Visit to Japan
The wonderworking Hawaiian Iveron Icon made its first-ever pilgrimage to Japan, drawing hundreds of faithful to Tokyo and Kyoto for prayer, veneration, and a historic celebration of Orthodox unity.
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.