Archimandrite Accuses OCU Clergy of Politicizing Ukrainian Soldier’s Funeral

STARI BROSKIVTSI, UKRAINE — As reported by UOJ-Ukraine, Archimandrite Vissarion (Chykal), rector of the St. Paraskeva parish of the Ukrainian Orthodox Church (UOC) in Stari Broskivtsi, has accused representatives of the Orthodox Church of Ukraine (OCU) of politicizing the funeral of Ukrainian serviceman Oleksandr Reus. Speaking on Aug. 10, he said the sermon following the memorial prayers focused heavily on the war rather than offering consolation to the soldier’s family.

Vissarion said Reus’ relatives needed spiritual support after his death and criticized what he described as political rhetoric during the funeral. He said little was said about Reus’ life, service, or accomplishments that might have comforted his mother, wife, and other relatives.

The Archimandrite also rejected accusations that UOC clergy and parishioners are pro-Russian, saying his parish has financially supported Ukrainian servicemen by contributing toward a vehicle, food, and clothing. He said such assistance makes accusations that UOC members are “Moskal” particularly painful.

Vissarion additionally addressed the mobilization of UOC clergy, claiming that priests, deacons, and monastics have been detained by Territorial Recruitment Centers and sent to military service. He described the situation as contradictory, saying UOC clergy can be accused of supporting Russia while serving in the armed forces after mobilization.

Previously, the UOJ reported that a Ukraine eparchy called for a review of a priest’s mobilization.