Dumenko paying a visit to Phanar

Epifaniy Dumenko and Patriarch Bartholomew. Photo:pomisna.info

The head of the Orthodox Church of Ukraine, Epifaniy Dumenko, arrived in Istanbul on 26 January for an official meeting with Patriarch Bartholomew, reports the OCU press service.

Metropolitan Maxim of Silivria and Ukrainian diplomats met Epiphanius at the Istanbul airport.

On January, 27th, the head of the OCU will take part in the service in honour of the transfer of St. John Chrysostom's relics, which is to take place in the Patriarchal Church of St George, Phanar, and have an official meeting with Patriarch Bartholomew.

Dumenko will be accompanied by OCU spokesman Evstratiy Zoria.

As reported, the OCU received a separate cell from its allies on Mt Athos. Dumenko's supporters promise to set up a "Ukrainian House" on the Holy Mountain.

Read also

OCU parishioners in Kosmach sue each other over December 25 service

An OCU parish in Ivano-Frankivsk Region held no services either on December 25 or on January 7.

Analyst likens Bankova’s case against UOC to Stalin-era repression

Bondarenko said the way the authorities justify pressure on the Church may amount to the rhetoric of the totalitarian era.

Christmas caroling and festive concerts held across UOC eparchies

During the January celebration of the Nativity of Christ, UOC communities across the country sing carols, hold concerts, and organize charitable initiatives.

Primate: God’s law is written in every human heart

During a sermon in Boryspil, His Beatitude reminded the faithful of the meaning of Christmas and the need to live according to God’s commandments.

Media: Transgender-identified inmates sexually assault women in US prisons

Female inmates, who have been interviewed extensively as part of the research on the impact of gender ideology in custodial settings, describe the facility as “a haven for sexual predators who pretend to be transgender.”

Guardian: Bible sales in Britain hit new highs in 2025

Specialists are noting growing interest in Christian texts amid social change and a rethinking of faith’s role in contemporary society.