Temple in Volhynia goes to OCU despite protests of the community and rector
In the village of Dubyshche, Volyn Eparchy, the community of the Vladimir temple of the Ukrainian Orthodox Church transferred to the OCU contrary to the assurances of the rector. It is reported by volynnews.
The meeting of the church community was attended by the villagers and local authorities, who initiated the "transition".
Priest Mikhail Bodak, rector of the temple, noted he would remain faithful to God and was not going to the schismatics. According to the results of the vote, 59 parishioners remained together with him, while 284 people voted for the transfer of the temple community to the OCU.
“I will be faithful to the Ukrainian Orthodox Church, no matter how many are left with me – two, three – I will be a priest and spiritual mentor for them,” Father Mikhail said to the authorities’ proposal to transfer to the OCU following the example of the rural territorial community.
Earlier, the UOJ reported that the Ovruch authorities demanded that UOC priests either get to the OCU or vacate the churches.
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.