Zelensky signs Law 8371 allowing for the ban of UOC

Volodymyr Zelensky. Photo: ZelenskyyUa

On August 24, 2024, President of Ukraine Volodymyr Zelensky signed the Verkhovna Rada-approved bill No. 8371 "On Protecting the Constitutional Order in the Field of Religious Organizations", aimed at banning the Ukrainian Orthodox Church (UOC).

The law will come into effect 30 days after its publication. However, with the exception of one provision – according to which UOC communities will have nine months to sever ties with the Russian Orthodox Church.

As reported by the UOJ, while congratulating Ukrainians on Independence Day, the President stated that Ukrainian Orthodoxy is taking a step towards deliverance from the "Moscow demons".

Read also

Pat. Bartholomew: It Is a ‘Grave Sin’ To Put Politics Before Church Unity

"Those who jeopardize this unity in the name of geopolitical expediencies and base motives for acquiring earthly power—falsely cloaked in spirituality—commit an offense before God and a grave sin," the Ecumenical Patriarch said.

Procession Held in Honor of St. Gabriel of Georgia

On Nov. 1, clergy, Mother Paraskeva, and Russian, Ukrainian, and Georgian faithful took part in a procession from the house of St. Gabriel the Confessor and Fool-for-Christ to the Samtavro Monastery.

Hierarchs of UOC Appeal to Zelenskyy in Defense of Met. Arseny

The episcopate of the Ukrainian Orthodox Church called on Zelenskyy to stop the persecution of Met. Arseny and to ensure he receives medical treatment.

Moscow Synod Declares Day of Prayer Against Abortion

The Synod also revived the annual All-Moscow Cross Procession as a symbol of faith and unity.

Abp. John of Albania Meets with Pope Leo

Leaders discuss global peace, youth, and Christian cooperation at interfaith event.

Lawyer: The Health Condition of Met. Tychikos Remains Concerning

Met. Tychikos remains hospitalized in Athens.