Unknown vandals deface Uniate churches in Ternopil
Sts. Peter and Paul Church. Photo: Trukha
On the morning of October 27, around 7 AM, the priests of several UGCC churches reported incidents of vandalism to the police, according to the Ternopil region police.
At the entrance gates of the Church of Saints Peter and Paul, the number "666" was found painted, as reported by local media. Similar markings were also made on the facade of the Church of St. John the Theologian on Vossyiedinennya Street. Ternopil's mayor stated that these actions appear to be a coordinated attack.
"Subhumans have desecrated the shrines of Ternopil. Satanic signs have appeared on the Sts. Peter and Paul Church and other temples. This is a planned act of vandalism. We will provide all necessary assistance to law enforcement in the investigation," emphasized Mayor Serhiy Nadal, adding that Ternopil is a place of Christian traditions.
A criminal case has been initiated under Article 296 (hooliganism) of the Criminal Code of Ukraine. The police are reviewing surveillance footage and conducting operational search activities to identify the culprits.
As previously reported, the Council of Churches in Ternopil has called for the exclusion of the UOC from the organization.
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.