A rally in support of Metropolitan Longin begins in Bucharest
Rally at the Ukrainian Embassy in Bucharest. Photo: spzh.news
On the morning of November 17, 2023, a peaceful rally in support of Metropolitan Longin began in front of the Ukrainian Embassy in Bucharest. As of 11:00, approximately 100 people had gathered at the embassy. Law enforcement officers were present to ensure the safety of the participants.
The rally participants are demanding that the Ukrainian authorities ensure the safety and freedom of Metropolitan Longin. Protesters also reminded Ukrainian representatives that the UOC hierarch has adopted and fostered over 400 orphaned children, most of whom have disabilities.
Signs held by participants conveyed messages such as "The bishop is everything these children have. The Mother of God will punish you"; "Hands off Bishop Longin! His children cry because of you"; "Do not touch Vladyka Longin! All of Romania will stand up for him"; "Shame on Ukraine! Romania has embraced your children as its own. And you trampled them with your boots"; "Do not leave orphans without their father, Vladyka Longin"; "We defend the faith handed down to us by our fathers"; "The Lord God works through people – Bishop Longin is faith, love, mercy. We are bu his side!"
As a reminder, security forces with firearms have surrounded the Bancheny Monastery.
As reported by the UOJ, a Romanian deputy called for the return of Bukovyna due to the SBU's attack on the Bancheny Monastery.
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