UOC Synod urges Verkhovna Rada MPs not to pass Bill 8371

Verkhovna Rada of Ukraine. Photo: armyinform.com.ua
On April 10, 2024, the Holy Synod of the Ukrainian Orthodox Church expressed its position on the draft law No. 8371, the Information and Education Department of the UOC reported.
The Synodals noted that the bill No. 8371 "On Amending Certain Laws of Ukraine on the Activities of Religious Organizations in Ukraine", initiated by the Cabinet of Ministers of Ukraine, is of particular concern to the faithful.
"Under the pretext of protecting national security, its provisions are aimed not only at closing down the Ukrainian Orthodox Church but also at violating the fundamental right to freedom of religion, guaranteed by the state for its every citizen.," the document reads.
According to the bishops' conviction, the bill is aimed at interference in the internal activities of religious organizations of the UOC.
In this regard, the Holy Synod urged the MPs of the Verkhovna Rada of Ukraine not to pass this bill.
As reported by the UOJ, the Holy Synod previously stated the violation of the rights of UOC believers.
Read also
Metropolitan Onuphry congratulates Georgia on 1,700 years of Christianity
The Primate of the UOC sent a message to Patriarch Shio III on the anniversary of Christianity becoming the state religion in Georgia.
Zakarpattia marks 25th anniversary of Alexis of Carpatho-Russia's glorification
An all-night vigil was served at St. Nicholas Monastery in the village of Iza-Karputlash to celebrate the 25th anniversary of the glorification of St. Alexis of Carpatho-Russia.
DESS finds Balta Eparchy of UOC affiliated with ROC
Yelensky-headed state service said it found signs of affiliation of the Balta Eparchy Administration of the UOC with the ROC.
Upper Lavra court hearing postponed
The next court hearing in the Upper Lavra case has been scheduled for November 3.
UOC priest blesses ambulances at Kamianske medical center
A UOC priest in Kamianske blessed ambulances for a medical facility and wished its doctors God's help in their work.
Dumenko to German ambassador: Law targeting UOC also applies to other groups
Epifaniy Dumenko sought to defend Ukraine’s law restricting religious organizations during a meeting with the German ambassador.