UOC Chancellor comments on Metropolitan Pavel’s arrest

Metropolitan Anthony, UOC Chancellor. Photo: a video screenshot of Metropolitan Anthony's YouTube channel

Metropolitan Anthony of Boryspil and Brovary, the UOC Chancellor, commented on the detention of Metropolitan Pavel, the abbot of the Kyiv-Pechersk Lavra, on his YouTube channel.

The bishop noted that all the charges brought against Metropolitan Pavel are directed not only against him but also against the entire UOC.

He expressed regret that instead of child traffickers, who are released, today a bishop is imprisoned in the country. According to him, this explains all the hatred towards the Church.

"To remain silent after what has happened would not just mean showing fear, it would mean joining the ranks of those who unjustly persecute you. <...> But Christ, who Himself endured the bonds and sufferings of false denunciation, strengthens us by His example, and we are ready to proclaim after Him: 'Lord, forgive them, they know not what they do.' We pray for you, dear Vladyka, we pray with you, we pray and wish you patience and steadfastness in Christ. The whole Orthodox Church prays," he added.

As reported, in Greece the arrest of Metropolitan Pavel was called "torture by the authorities".

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.