Ostapenko: Memorial service for Mazepa at Lavra is part of war with Russia
Monument to Mazepa. Photo: Focus
The Director of the National Reserve "Kyiv-Pechersk Lavra", Maksym Ostapenko, commented on the "memorial service" conducted by the OCU in the Church of All Saints for Hetman Ivan Mazepa, who was anathematized by the Russian Orthodox Church in 1708, according to the reserve's press service.
"This memorial service is not only a tribute to an outstanding statesman, philanthropist, and diplomat who was ahead of his time but also a component of our semantic war with Russia. We must win this duel, and for that, we need to revive, establish, and develop the traditions of the Ukrainian Lavra. In these times and through such events, historical truth and spiritual justice are being restored," Ostapenko emphasized.
As the UOJ reported, on June 11, 2023, a memorial service for Mazepa was held for the first time in the All Saints Church of the Kyiv-Pechersk Lavra.
Read also
Myrrh-Bearers Bring Orthodoxy to Rural Virginia
Following the example of their heavenly patrons, the Holy Myrrh-Bearers, this community bring the myrrh of faith to all those around them.
Cherkasy Bishop Urges Pat. Bartholomew to Revoke Legalization of OCU
In an open letter to the Ecumenical Patriarch, Met. Theodosiy of Cherkasy and Kaniv stressed that simply withdrawing the Tomos is no longer sufficient under current circumstances.
Fr. Alex Karloutsos Elevated to Megas Protopresbyteros
The title, which means “grand archpriest,” means Karloutsos is now the first priest under the jurisdiction of the Ecumenical Patriarchate. The announcement came before another surprise – his church was raised to the status of cathedral, and he is its dean.
Pat. Bartholomew Celebrates Divine Liturgy in the Hamptons
Following the liturgy, Fr. Alexander Karloutsos was raised to the rank of Megas Protopresbyteros and the Dormition of the Virgin Mary Greek Orthodox Church of the Hamptons was elevated to the status of Cathedral.
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.