Pochaiv Lavra Calls Faithful to Prayer Ahead of Court Hearing

POCHAIV, UKRAINE — The brotherhood of the Pochaiv Lavra has called on the faithful to participate in a period of intensified prayer and fasting ahead of a court hearing that the monastery says could affect the future of the Ukrainian Orthodox Church’s (UOC) legal status and the historic monastery itself.

The Spiritual Council of the Pochaiv Lavra blessed the faithful to undertake a strict fast and increased prayer effort on July 21-22 in preparation for the court session scheduled for July 22. The monks encouraged clergy, pilgrims, and members of the Church to unite spiritually during the days leading up to the hearing.

As reported by UOJ-Ukraine, the Lavra’s brotherhood emphasized the importance of turning to God with humility and trust, asking for mercy and protection for the Church. The monks said that the upcoming judicial decision could have direct consequences for the monastery and its sacred sites, urging believers to offer prayers for their preservation.

The spiritual effort was presented as a common act of faith and devotion, with the monks expressing hope that the prayers and fasting of the faithful would serve as an offering to God and help strengthen the Church during a challenging period.

The Pochaiv Lavra, one of the most significant Orthodox monasteries in Ukraine, remains a major pilgrimage destination and spiritual center for thousands of believers.

Previously, the UOJ reported that Pochaiv Lavra called for prayer and strict fast ahead of a state hearing to ban the UOC.