UOC hierarch: Standing near the VR is an opportunity to practice your faith

Bishop Victor of Baryshevka. Photo: facebook.com/V.D.Kotsaba

Participation in a prayer standing near the Verkhovna Rada on June 15 and its support is an opportunity to profess one's faith in the Risen Christ, wrote the Head of the UOC Representation to European International Organizations, Bishop Victor (Kotsaba) of Baryshevka in his Telegram channel.

“Orthodox Christians can defend the Church with the help of a powerful weapon – prayer,” Vladyka noted. “That is why, tomorrow at 9:00 am the believers of the Ukrainian Orthodox Church will gather near the Verkhovna Rada for a prayer standing.

For the first time in the history of our state, the believers will submit to the people's representatives an appeal with bills aimed at destroying the lawlessness in relation to our Church, which we have witnessed in our time."

The hierarch emphasized that the state should ensure equal rights for all citizens; however, in practice, in Ukraine, believers of one confession are oppressed, favor is given to another denomination, while officials and law enforcement agencies commit crimes and often even become involved in them.

The authorities did not attach importance to the million signatures against the anti-church laws, hence the believers decided not to be silent anymore, but to unite and stand up for the protection of the Church.

“In this situation, we cannot remain indifferent,” emphasized Bishop Victor. “To stand up for the protection of the Church means to stand up for the protection of your own Mother. Direct participation in the action, which is organized by the "Miriane" public organization, as well as its prayer support in all corners of Ukraine, is an opportunity to profess your own faith in the Risen Christ.”

As reported by the UOJ, "Miriane" explained how believers can join the movement.

Read also

State Film Agency bans Ukrainian film "Prayer for Hetman Mazepa"

The film by renowned director Yuriy Illienko about Mazepa was banned due to the participation of an actor from the Russian Federation.

US state to introduce criminal liability for refusing to break confessional seal

The bill in Arizona could see priests facing felony charges if they fail to break the seal of confession after learning of child abuse during the sacrament.

Synod of Cyprus sets conditions for lifting Met. Tychikos' suspension

The Cypriot Synod linked the possible return of the hierarch to service with a number of requirements, including a written confession of faith and a refusal to appeal to a secular court.

Congresswoman takes control of possible takeover attempt in Kuzmyn

An American legislator responded to the appeal of UOC parishioners, publishing their video, and promising to seek accountability for attempts to seize churches.

OCU church in Kosmach cancels Christmas services due to calendar disputes

Disagreements over the date of Christmas celebrations in the Pre-Carpathian community have led to the services not taking place either in December or in January

Congresswoman: Zelensky waging war against his people over faith

An American legislator stated that Zelensky's policies have led to the persecution of believers and promised to respond to forceful actions against UOC parishes.