Metropolitan Jonathan refuses exchange to Russia
Metropolitan Jonathan (Yeletskikh). Photo: Press Service of the Tulchyn Eparchy
The convicted head of the Tulchyn Eparchy of the Ukrainian Orthodox Church, Metropolitan Jonathan (Yeletskikh), has refused to be included in the exchange fund as a prisoner of war for transfer to Russia, reports Glavcom citing court registry data.
The UOC hierarch’s lawyer stated that his client wrote an application for exchange while undergoing treatment at a cardiology center following a stroke. However, Metropolitan Jonathan does not have the status of a prisoner of war, does not admit his guilt, and "wants to continue working for the benefit of Ukraine".
During the session, Met. Jonathan stressed that he wrote the application himself, but now, since he does not have the status of a prisoner of war, he has changed his mind.
As reported by UOJ, the ruling bishop of the Tulchyn Eparchy was sentenced to 5 years of imprisonment with confiscation of property.
Read also
Bukovyna believers deliver 30 t of humanitarian aid to Sviatohirsk Lavra
Since 2022, parishioners of the Chernivtsi-Bukovyna Eparchy of the UOC have made nine humanitarian trips to the Holy Dormition Sviatohirsk Lavra, delivering food, clothing, and other essentials to those affected by the ongoing military conflict.
Cherkasy City Council takes away three church land plots from UOC
The City Council Secretary claimed that the UOC represents “forces supporting aggression against Ukraine”.
Patriarch Bartholomew honored for climate protection and ecumenical efforts
Particular recognition was given to the Patriarch’s ecumenical and interfaith initiatives, both within and beyond the Abrahamic traditions.
Raider from OCU goes on seizures accompanied by Right Sector journalist
The woman travels with the raiding group through the villages of Bukovyna.
Court hearing on the eviction of monks from Lower Lavra postponed
The next hearing is scheduled for May 1 and is expected to take place with the participation of representatives from the Kyiv Metropolis of the UOC.
“Brutal medievalism”: MP criticizes church raids by OCU in Bukovyna
Mazurashu emphasized that decisions on parish transitions must be made by actual parishioners – not “parachuted-in” outsiders or raiders.