UOC Chancellor: We have no right to push God-entrusted people into schism
Metropolitan Anthony. Photo: facebook.com/MitropolitAntoniy
The UOC Chancellor, Metropolitan Anthony of Boryspil and Brovary, declared that neither persecution nor intimidation or repression will give the Church the right to push God-entrusted people into schism. He made this statement in an address published on his YouTube channel.
According to him, there are continuous efforts to destroy the Ukrainian Orthodox Church, and they will always find new pretexts for it.
"Now is the time of truth, the time for everyone to decide whom we serve – God or the world, whether we are ready to take up our cross and follow Christ or be among the crowd shouting, 'Crucify Him!'" he said.
Furthermore, the UOC Chancellor cannot engage in the dialogue with the OCU as demanded by the authorities and activists. The bishop is convinced that such dialogue would lead to the UOC ceasing to exist as a canonical Church.
"This is a line we can never cross because behind it lies spiritual destruction. They will not stop until we completely merge with the OCU," the bishop added.
As reported, the UOC Chancellor said that the Ukrainian authorities are ignoring the rights of the largest religious denomination in Ukraine and are waging war against their own citizens.
Read also
Facts of persecution against UOC included in world's human rights report
The Amnesty International report points to pressure on the Ukrainian Orthodox Church and criticism from UN experts.
Greek cleric rebukes deputy during Liturgy for supporting LGBT law
In Larissa, a cleric of the Church of Greece accused parliament of betraying Christian ideals.
Anglican Church of Wales approves rite for blessing same-sex couples
The governing body of the Church in Wales has approved a permanent rite for blessing same-sex unions – the decision has already been criticized by orthodox Anglicans, and an outflow of believers is expected.
Radomyshl City Council wants to seize St. Nicholas Cathedral of UOC through court
The Radomyshl City Council filed a lawsuit demanding recognition of the UOC St. Nicholas Cathedral as communal property due to the absence of a registered owner.
Greek Primate condemns desecration of Christ statue in Lebanon
Archbishop Ieronymos stated that violence against holy sites is unacceptable and called for peace following the incident involving damage to a statue of Christ in southern Lebanon.
Netherlands Ministry of Education urges not to use terms "father" and "mother"
In the Netherlands, officials have been recommended to abandon the words "father" and "mother", suggesting to replace them with formulations within the framework of inclusivity policy and consideration for LGBT families.