UOC Altar Server Abducted in Volodymyr
An altar server of the Ukrainian Orthodox Church in Volodymyr was beaten and abducted by individuals posing as law enforcement, prompting calls for immediate intervention.
VOLODYMYR, UKRAINE — On January 14, 2026, an altar server of the Holy Dormition Cathedral of the Ukrainian Orthodox Church was reportedly beaten and abducted by unknown individuals claiming to be law enforcement, according to Metr. Volodymyr of Volodymyr–Volynskyi and Kovel.
The attack occurred near the church worker’s home, with the assailants acting demonstratively and using physical force, the hierarch said. Metr. Volodymyr described the incident as “brutality toward a peaceful person who has devoted his life to serving God” and called it a challenge to the wider society.
He emphasized that the Church cannot remain silent when its faithful are assaulted in broad daylight and urged immediate action. “I call on you to act in accordance with the oath you gave to the Ukrainian people. I expect immediate intervention and the restoration of justice,” he appealed, addressing representatives of the State Security Service (SBU) and local police.
Previously, the UOJ reported that the Territorial Recruitment Center in Ukraine had detained a UOC priest who served two village parishes.
