Expert: Phanar head's visit increases probability of OCU-Uniates alliance
Head of the UGCC Sviatoslav Shevchuk and head of the OCU Epiphany. Photo: synod.ugcc.ua
There is a stronger likelihood of concluding alliances between the OCU and the UGCC. Ruslan Bortnik, Director of the Ukrainian Institute of Politics, said this in a comment to the UOJ.
Assessing the possible consequences of the recent visit of the head of Phanar, which the expert described as political, Ruslan Bortnik noted that "this visit strengthens the influence of the Patriarch of Constantinople in Ukraine, allows expanding this influence by acquiring new stavropegia, increasing leverage on the Ukrainian government, while bolstering the position of the OCU."
“It also increases the likelihood of some kind of alliance between the OCU and Greek Catholics,” the expert said.
The UOJ wrote that Patriarch Bartholomew presented the head of the UGCC with a panagia with his signature. The latter regarded the gift as recognition of the episcopal dignity of the entire UGCC.
Read also
Petition Warns Canada’s Hate Speech Law Could Criminalize Scripture
Thousands of Canadians have signed a petition urging the Liberal government to drop proposed hate-speech changes that critics warn could criminalize quoting the Bible and other religious texts.
JD Vance: Criticizing Israel Is Not Antisemitism
Vice President JD Vance said opposing Israeli policies is not the same as antisemitism, sparking debate over where criticism of Israel ends and hatred of Jews begins.
First Orthodox Prayer Book Published in Indonesian Language
The first Orthodox prayer book in Indonesian has been published and presented in Bekasi, providing local faithful and new converts with a vital resource for prayer and liturgical life.
OCA Joins Legal Challenge to Illinois Abortion Referral Law
Amicus brief argues mandate violates religious freedom and compels pro-life providers to contradict their faith.
EXCLUSIVE: Leaked Ukrainian Memo Says Religious Freedom is ‘Achilles Heel’
In an emergency strategy meeting held in response to the Society of St. John's Day of Action, D.C.-based Ukrainian lobbyists acknowledged the weight of the religious freedom issue as it pertains to the Ukrainian government’s public perception.
Historic $2.9 Million Bequest Strengthens Greek Orthodox Foundation
The Greek Orthodox Metropolis of Chicago Foundation has received a record $2.9 million bequest from the late Andy Efthim, a devoted layman whose faith-filled generosity will support the Church’s mission for generations.