Metr. Isaac Calls for Truth to Be Revealed in Sviatohirsk Monk’s Killing

SVIATOHIRSK, UKRAINE — UOJ-Germany has received a prayer and message of condolence from Metr. Isaac (Barakat), head of the Antiochian Orthodox Metropolis of Germany and Central Europe, following the Aug. 23 attack on monks of the Sviatohirsk Dormition Lavra in Ukraine’s Donetsk region. Monk Varsonofy was killed, while two other people were seriously injured.

In his message, Metr. Isaac expressed deep sorrow over the death of the monk and injuries suffered by the other brothers. He called for prayers for the eternal repose of the deceased, the recovery of the wounded, and strength and protection for the Lavra’s monastic community during what he described as a difficult trial.

The Metropolitan also called for the truth surrounding the attack to be revealed and for justice to prevail. He urged Orthodox Christians not to remain indifferent to violence and suffering, but instead to pray for peace, mercy, and the overcoming of hatred.

UOJ-Germany published the Metropolitan’s complete prayer and message of mourning:

It is with deep sorrow that we learned of the murder of the monk Varsonofy in the Sviatohirsk Lavra and of the serious injury of two other brothers.

We pray for the eternal rest of our departed brother and for the speedy recovery of the wounded. May Christ, the Lord of Life, strengthen and protect the monks of the Lavra in this difficult trial.

We also pray that the truth about this terrible act will come to light and that justice will prevail. As Orthodox Christians, we must not remain indifferent in the face of violence and suffering, but are called to pray for peace, mercy, and the overcoming of hatred.

Eternal remembrance of the monk Varsonofy. May the Lord heal the wounded and keep His people in peace.

Lord, have mercy!

Metropolitan Isaac

Previously, the UOJ reported that the Sviatohirsk Lavra buried a monk killed in an attack.