Yelensky assures that Ukraine is a model of freedom of religion
Yelensky knows no other country where religious freedom is breathed in so freely. Photo: the DESS website.
Viktor Yelensky, head of the State Ethnopolitics Service, stated at a conference on the occasion of World Religion Day that Ukraine is an example of religious freedom, as reported on the DESS website.
He claimed that on the occupied territories, Ukrainian believers suffer from persecution. But in the Ukrainian-controlled lands, according to him, the situation is allegedly quite different.
"Today, religious freedom in Ukraine is not just a slogan; it is put into practice and is an unprecedented example of cooperation among various religious organizations in the modern world," said the official.
He complained that in Brussels, ROC representatives spoke about religious persecutions in Ukraine and criticized bill No 8371 on banning the Ukrainian Orthodox Church.
In response, the head of DESS clarified that "this law is not discriminatory; it does not prohibit religion but is aimed at protecting against the influence of the administrative centre of the religious organisation of the aggressor state."
According to him, the Ukrainian Orthodox Church must sever its administrative ties with Moscow; otherwise, "state authorities will seek through the court the cessation of its existence".
As reported, the SBI opened a criminal case against the leadership of the State Ethnopolitics Service.
Read also
Oldest UOC church in Sumy marks its patronal feast
Metropolitan Yevlohiy led celebrations at the city’s oldest parish, where the wonderworking Pustynno-Hlynska Icon of the Mother of God was brought for the feast.
Hundreds of faithful in Bulgaria welcome Hawaiian Icon of the Mother of God
Patriarch Daniel led the ceremonial welcome for the myrrh-streaming icon in Sofia and thanked the ROCOR Synod for arranging its visit.
Pope Leo XIV approves new Vatican Сonstitution
The new Fundamental Law establishes the right of non-cardinals to head Vatican administrative bodies.
Church commemorates Prophet Elijah
The Church honors the memory of the prophet who lived in the ninth century BC and became an example of unwavering faith for Christians throughout the ages.
UOC priest’s home damaged in drone strike on Poltava
The home of Archpriest Kostiantyn Fisun, rector of St. Seraphim Church in Poltava, was damaged in a drone attack.
Kyiv Theological Schools begin enrollment for catechetical courses
The Kyiv Theological Academy has announced enrollment for the St. Peter Mohyla Catechetical Courses for laypeople.