Chief Rabbi explains why he advocated for the ban on UOC in the US
Chief Rabbi of Kyiv and Ukraine Yaakov Dov Bleich. Photo: screenshot from the Voice of America YouTube channel
In an interview with Voice of America, Yaakov Dov Bleich, the Chief Rabbi of Ukraine, explained why he promoted Bill 8371 banning the UOC during meetings with US officials, a bill that was passed in the first reading by the Rada.
The rabbi stated that those who question this bill do not understand the realities of life in Ukraine, while he does.
"I am not defending the law; I am explaining the bill so that people understand its importance for Ukraine, a country at war," said Rabbi Dov Bleich.
At the same time, he hopes that this bill will not affect the UOC because it "will find a way to ensure that this law does not affect it."
According to the rabbi, he conveyed to Americans that "defending the freedoms of individuals and organizations while simultaneously defending the country from an aggressor" is challenging.
The rabbi claimed that he supported this bill "for a reason" and that it "makes sense."
"The head of the parliament discussed with the AUCCRO the need for the law. This law was carefully studied by religious organizations. None of them, including the UOC MP, came out and said during the meeting that this is bad, we don't want this, that we disagree," assured Yaakov Dov Bleich.
Recall that during a meeting between the AUCCRO and Ruslan Stefanchuk on April 11, 2023, Archbishop Victor of Khmelnytskyi not only did not remain silent, as the rabbi now claims, but sharply criticized Bill 8371 and other anti-church initiatives registered in the parliament.
Read also
Major U.S. hospital network refuses to implement new assisted suicide law
Advocate Health Care said it would not participate in Illinois’ assisted suicide program.
OCU activists call TRC to service of persecuted UOC community in Kremenchuk
After seizing the Holy Trinity Church in Kremenchuk, Dumenko's followers attempted to disrupt the worship service of UOC believers held in the open air.
Bila Tserkva authorities attempting to seize monastery building from UOC
The Bila Tserkva City Council is attempting to reclaim the buildings of the St. Mary Magdalene Convent for communal ownership through the courts.
Egyptian police arrest Christians targeted in Muslim attacks
Copts were released once they withdrew their complaints against their assailants.
Primate of Macedonian Church congratulates Lavra's abbot on name day
Archbishop Stefan noted the zeal of the Lavra's abbot, who shares the sorrows of his flock.
Persecuted community in Stari Broskivtsi marks patronal feast in new church
The rector thanked the faithful for building a new church to replace the one that was seized.