OCU "monk" explains why Kyiv-Pechersk Lavra is closed

The closed Kyiv-Pechersk Lavra. Photo: Gazeta.ua

OCU "abbot" Vasyl, residing in the Kyiv-Pechersk Lavra, stated in an interview with Gazeta.ua that the monastery remains closed to the public due to potential provocations.

"Allowing unrestricted access could enable some to either take out everything or bring in prohibited items," the monk explained. "It's like a 'frozen conflict' here because the hype and interest around the Lavra have died down. However, it is up to us to influence what is in the minds and hearts of our citizens."

He expressed doubt that UOC monks were sending money from the Kyiv-Pechersk Lavra to Russia, but believes they were sending information about the sentiments of citizens and specific individuals.

The OCU "monk" also mentioned that he, along with nine other individuals placed in the monastery by the OCU, does not communicate with the brethren of the Kyiv-Pechersk Lavra.

As the UOJ previously reported, OCU "Archbishop" Agapit of Vyshhorod stated that his organization had hoped the monks of the Kyiv-Pechersk Lavra would join the OCU, but this did not happen, and they still reside in the monastery.

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