In Checheliivka, people in balaclavas seize Intercession Church of UOC

The seizure of the Intercession Сhurch in Checheliivka. Photo: UOJ

On 11 November 2023, in the village of Checheliivka, the Alexandria Eparchy, unknown people in camouflage and balaclavas broke the doors and seized the Intercession Сhurch of the UOC, as parishioners report to the UOJ.

For about 4 years, there have been legal proceedings over this temple. Until recently, there has been an agreement between the UOC community and OCU supporters, according to which no one entered the temple. The rector of the community served in an adapted room on the territory of the temple.

Though the Intercession Church is an architectural monument, OCU supporters managed to acquire title to it. Nevertheless, there is no court decision that would allow them to enter the church. The last session was held on 2 November, the next one is scheduled for December.

The forceful seizure, according to eyewitnesses, involves representatives of the police and the SBU.

"The parishioners of this temple have dead and missing husbands in this war. And this is what is happening," the believers say.

As reported, the armed law enforcers cordoned off the Bancheny Monastery.

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