Communion held outdoors due to overflowing crowds at Kyiv Caves Lavra

UOC parishioners receiving Communion outdoors at the Lavra. Photo: Save_Lavra Telegram channel

At the UOC Church of St. Sergius of Radonezh, located near the closed gates of the Kyiv-Pechersk Lavra, priests were compelled to administer Communion outdoors because the church could not accommodate everyone inside. Photos of the event were shared by the Save_Lavra Telegram channel.

The images show dozens of people standing by the Communion chalices outside the church. Nearby, the Church of St. Agapitus of the Caves was also filled to capacity during the Liturgy.

It is worth recalling that authorities closed access to the Lower Lavra (where the UOC monastery is located) on August 10, 2023. Since then, all parishioners of Lavra churches have been compelled to find new places of worship.

Previously, it was reported that priests at the Lavra had administered Communion to parishioners through the monastery’s gate.

Read also

Abducted Ukrainian Deacon Dies During Military Training

Abducted and conscripted Ukrainian deacon Orest Black, known for his devotion and sacred singing, tragically died at age 46 during military training, leaving a legacy of faith and humility.

Court Hearing on Expulsion of Monks from Kyiv-Pechersk Lavra Postponed Again

A long-delayed monastery lawsuit against a sanctuary faces yet another indefinite postponement after the presiding judge went on sick leave.

OCA Clergy Gather for Winter Synaxis Focused on Renewal and Resilience

More than 100 OCA clergy gathered online for the Winter 2025 Synaxis to pray, learn, and reflect on sustaining pastoral ministry and avoiding burnout through renewal in Christ.

Trump Administration Moves to Ban Federally Funded Transgender Procedures for Minors

The Trump administration is moving to bar federally funded hospitals from performing transgender medical procedures on minors, citing evidence of harm and a duty to protect children.

Bp. Theodosius: Ukraine's Authorities Classify Icons as Works of Art and Relics as Mummies

ROCOR hierarch links current policies toward holy sites and clergy to Soviet-era repression, calls for prayer and respect for religious freedom.

Society of St. John's Day of Action Gives Hope Persecution of UOC May Subside, Analyst Says

Political scientist says congressional outreach and high-level U.S. statements signal possible shift in response to persecution of the Ukrainian Orthodox Church.