ROC Archdiocese in Western Europe calls on Patriarch Kirill to condemn war

The Episcopal Council of the Archdiocese of Orthodox Churches of the Russian Tradition in Western Europe called upon Patriarch Kirill to condemn the war. The corresponding declaration was published on the official website of the Archdiocese.

"The war has been going on for eight months now, and during this time many Christian leaders around the world have appealed to Patriarch Kirill to intercede for peace. We are witnessing that so many of our communities, seeing as their sole goal the search for peace in the name of the Gospel, are in a state of turmoil. Among the parishioners of our churches there are many Russians and Ukrainians who are suffering with all of us from the current situation," the statement said. 

"We once again ask His Holiness to speak with all the power of the Patriarch's word in favour of the peace process and to call on all leaders and decision-makers of the Russian Federation to do so. Metropolitan John, the vicar bishops, the members of the Archdiocesan Council, urging all to pray unceasingly, especially at Divine Liturgies, implore His Holiness to speak out for an immediate end to the fratricidal war, which poses too great a threat to the whole world today," the declaration concludes with these words. 

As reported, the head of the Estonian Church does not share the Patriarch's words about the forgiveness of sins to soldiers.

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.