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

Order of St. George Condemns Attack on Palestinian Christian Village

Following recent attacks in Taybeh and Gaza, the Order calls on Christians around the world to unite against the ongoing persecution.

Patriarchate of Jerusalem Affirms Jurisdiction Over Monastery of Sinai

His Beatitude Patriarch Theophilos III responds to Archbishop Damianos with call for reconciliation.

Damascene Press to Publish 'The Octoechos' in English in 2026

Monk Joseph (Isaac) Lambertsen’s translation to be released in kliros and personal reference formats.

Expert: Support for OCU Is Fading

The Kyiv Theological Academy professor speculates that the Ukrainian government's campaign against the canonical Church is no longer drawing members away from the UOC.

IOCC Repairs Ugandan School After Storms, Expands Rural Education Projects

Partnership with Uganda Orthodox Church brings safe water and new facilities to remote communities.

Planned Parenthood Caught Misleading PA Women—Again

The deception could mislead pregnant women seeking prenatal support, potentially funneling them toward abortion services.