Ukrainian MFA claims ROC forcibly subordinates UOC communities
Metropolitan Hilarion of Donetsk was retired by the ROC on October 24, 2024. Photo: UOJ
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Ukraine stated on January 10 that religious communities remaining in the temporarily occupied territories have been forcibly subordinated to the Russian Orthodox Church (ROC), reports the MFA website mfa.gov.ua.
“Numerous Christian religious communities within the temporarily occupied territories have been forcibly compelled to submit to the de jure ‘religious’ organization, the Russian Orthodox Church, which in reality serves as an instrument of Russian state power,” the MFA said, likely referring to several dioceses of the Ukrainian Orthodox Church (UOC).
The statement also noted that over 630 places of worship and religious sites in Ukraine have been destroyed or damaged by shelling. According to reports, the majority of these belong to the Ukrainian Orthodox Church.
Previously, the UOJ published reflections on the autonomy of the UOC and the removal of the Donetsk Metropolitan.
Read also
Orthodox Bioethics Conference Makes Key Statements on Euthanasia
The 3rd International Bioethics Conference of the Ecumenical Patriarchate recently concluded in Crete.
ROCOR Parish in Wales Fundraising to Secure a Church
The parish is hoping to establish a permanent Orthodox church in Cardiff — a home of prayer, worship, and renewal for Wales, where the ancient faith once flourished.
UOC Priest: St. Gabriel of Georgia Healed Ukrainian Soldier
A serviceman - who had been unable to speak for nearly a year due to a concussion - began to speak again after an appearance of the Georgian saint.
2025 St. Herman Youth Conference to Be Held in NY This December
Annual gathering to bring together Orthodox youth from across North America for fellowship, worship, and spiritual growth.
HCHC Community Holds All-Night Vigil Honoring Philoptochos Society and Its Patron Saints
Special prayers offered for members of the National Board and all Philoptochos chapters in gratitude for their decades of support.
Georgian Church Resumes Construction After Miracle
The foundation of a church was blessed at Georgia's Oncology Center — construction resumes on the Church of Ss. Panteleimon the Healer and John the Baptist.