Shevchuk: Communication between Rome and Phanar – example for OCU and UGCC

Head of the UGCC Sviatoslav Shevchuk and Patriarch Bartholomew of Constantinople. Photo: news.ugcc.ua

On June 11 in Kyiv, the head of the UGCC Sviatoslav Shevchuk during the presentation of the Ukrainian translation of the book by John Chryssavgis “Bartholomew: Apostolic Mission. Prophetic Vision", which took place at Epiphany Dumenko’s residence, said that the communication between Rome and Phanar is an example for the OCU and the UGCC, reports the press service of the UGCC.

Shevchuk spoke about a meeting with the head of the Phanar in the Vatican, during which he got the impression that "he is a man full of energy, who constantly radiates strength, will and the ability to move forward church, social and interstate life".

“It is significant that this book contains evidence of his (Patriarch Bartholomew’s – Ed.) personal meetings with two popes – Francis and Benedict XVI. We were all struck by the moment when Pope Francis, personally visiting His Holiness, bowed his head to him and asked for his blessing. This is more than mutual recognition. This is a special deep spiritual closeness that opens up new opportunities for any dialogue," Shevchuk added.

The head of the UGCC noted that the presentation of the book about the Patriarch of Constantinople in Ukrainian is one of the steps in preparation for the visit of Patriarch Bartholomew to Ukraine on the occasion of the 30th anniversary of Independence.

“This year we remember the 20th anniversary of the visit to Ukraine of St. Pope John Paul II. Then during the meeting, he called Ukraine "the laboratory of ecumenism". The All-Ukrainian Council of Churches and Religious Organizations is expecting a similar meeting this year with the Patriarch of Constantinople,” he added.

As reported earlier, Shevchuk stated that the Havana Declaration was directed against the UGCC.

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