Met. Anthony Leads UOC Glorification of Fool-for-Christ John the Wanderer

The glorification of Blessed John the Fool-for-Christ took place on Nov. 25, 2025. Photo: UOC Press Service

OLEKSANDRIA, UKRAINE — The Ukrainian Orthodox Church (UOC) marked the glorification of a 20th-century ascetic, Blessed John the Wanderer, with a festive service on Tuesday, November 25, at the Holy Protection Cathedral of the Oleksandria Diocese. The celebration follows the Holy Synod’s October 23 decision to canonize Archimandrite Philaret (Kochubei) and Blessed John, a revered Fool-for-Christ.

As reported by the website portal Orthodox Christianity, with reference to the UOC's press office, UOC Chancellor Met. Anthony of Boryspil and Brovary presided alongside seven hierarchs and numerous clergy. During the rite, Met. Nikolai of Kirovograd read the Synodal act of canonization, and Met. Bogolep of Oleksandria presented the saint’s life. Met. Anthony blessed the faithful with an icon of St. John as hymns of praise were offered. Prayers for peace in Ukraine were also lifted.

Following the service, the hierarchs visited the caves where the monastic fathers struggled and venerated the monastery’s sacred treasures.

St. John lived as a wandering ascetic, known for poverty, barefoot travels, and clairvoyance. Martyred by German forces in 1943, his relics were uncovered in 2021, with reported healings following their veneration.

Previously, UOJ reported that the Romanian Orthodox Church had canonized Arsenie Boca.

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