In Rivne and Sarny, OCU "hierarchs" propose unity to UOC hierarchs
Illustrative photo. Photo: Sudova Gazeta
The "bishop" of Rivne and Sarny of the Orthodox Church of Ukraine (OCU), Havriil, and the "metropolitan" of Rivne and Ostroh, Ilarion, have addressed the clergy and faithful of the Ukrainian Orthodox Church (UOC), urging them to leave the jurisdiction of the Moscow Patriarchate and join the OCU. This was reported on the website of the Rivne Diocese of the OCU.
"Bishop" Havriil emphasized the importance of uniting Orthodox Ukrainians around the "canonical and independent OCU". He stressed that division within Ukrainian Orthodoxy benefits the Russian aggressor. "For our common good in Christ the Lord and for the well-being of our earthly homeland, we must not waste time. It is necessary to start the process of communication in order to unite around the Kyiv throne within the canonical Orthodox Church of Ukraine," he stated.
He was supported by "Metropolitan" Ilarion, who also called on the UOC faithful to take decisive action to leave the Moscow Patriarchate. He reminded them that organizations supporting the ideology of the "Russian world" are unacceptable in Ukraine, as they sow discord and undermine society from within. "This is not only a step toward spiritual freedom but also an act of patriotism and a demonstration of true love for Ukraine," emphasized the "metropolitan".
Both OCU "hierarchs" urged UOC believers to convene parish meetings to discuss the importance of leaving the Moscow Patriarchate and complying with the law on protecting the constitutional order in the activities of religious organizations. "We urge you to make a choice: to support light and truth or to remain in darkness and evil," they concluded.
As previously reported by UOJ, Epifaniy Dumenko called on the Primate of the UOC to engage in dialogue about unification "without preconditions".
Read also
Archbishop of Cyprus Accuses Metropolitan Tychikos of 'Offense' He Himself Committed
Archbishop Georgios of Cyprus accuses Metropolitan Tychikos of Paphos of consecrating a church to a saint who has yet to be canonized. However, Georgios did the same thing during his tenure as Metropolitan of Paphos!
Earthquake Rocks Mount Athos
The Holy Mountain was hit with a 5.3-magnitude earthquake on Sunday, causing minor damage and one injury.
City of Kyiv Adorns Coat of Arms With Pride Rainbow
The emblem, which depicts St. Michael the Archangel wielding a flaming sword, was restored in 1995, replacing Soviet-era symbols.
Relics of Recently Canonized Saint Gifted to Macedonian Orthodox Parish in Chicago
St. Joakim Krčovski’s legacy of faith and enlightenment is now honored in the U.S. diaspora.
Greek Orthodox Community Celebrates Inaugural Charlotte-to-Athens Flight
Airport gate transformed with blessing, music, and Greek hospitality as Charlotte Douglas International Airport launched its longest nonstop flight.
Russia Demands Protections for Ukrainian Orthodox Church in Istanbul Peace Talks
Religious freedom emerges as a key issue in ceasefire proposal amid ongoing state actions against the UOC.