In Rivne and Sarny, OCU "hierarchs" propose unity to UOC hierarchs
Illustrative photo. Photo: Sudova Gazeta
The "bishop" of Rivne and Sarny of the Orthodox Church of Ukraine (OCU), Havriil, and the "metropolitan" of Rivne and Ostroh, Ilarion, have addressed the clergy and faithful of the Ukrainian Orthodox Church (UOC), urging them to leave the jurisdiction of the Moscow Patriarchate and join the OCU. This was reported on the website of the Rivne Diocese of the OCU.
"Bishop" Havriil emphasized the importance of uniting Orthodox Ukrainians around the "canonical and independent OCU". He stressed that division within Ukrainian Orthodoxy benefits the Russian aggressor. "For our common good in Christ the Lord and for the well-being of our earthly homeland, we must not waste time. It is necessary to start the process of communication in order to unite around the Kyiv throne within the canonical Orthodox Church of Ukraine," he stated.
He was supported by "Metropolitan" Ilarion, who also called on the UOC faithful to take decisive action to leave the Moscow Patriarchate. He reminded them that organizations supporting the ideology of the "Russian world" are unacceptable in Ukraine, as they sow discord and undermine society from within. "This is not only a step toward spiritual freedom but also an act of patriotism and a demonstration of true love for Ukraine," emphasized the "metropolitan".
Both OCU "hierarchs" urged UOC believers to convene parish meetings to discuss the importance of leaving the Moscow Patriarchate and complying with the law on protecting the constitutional order in the activities of religious organizations. "We urge you to make a choice: to support light and truth or to remain in darkness and evil," they concluded.
As previously reported by UOJ, Epifaniy Dumenko called on the Primate of the UOC to engage in dialogue about unification "without preconditions".
Read also
UOC hierarch celebrates Liturgy at relics of St. Nicholas in Bari
Archbishop Ambrose of Zghurivka, UOC clergy serving in Italy, and KDAiS students prayed at the myrrh-streaming relics of St. Nicholas the Wonderworker in Bari.
Police pledge increased security at UOC Kyiv Metropolia court hearing
UOC lawyers secured additional police presence following repeated provocations and direct pressure on the legal team outside the courthouse.
“Imperialist”: OCU cleric explains why Hieromartyr Vladimir is not venerated
An OCU representative claimed that Hieromartyr Vladimir supported “imperial policies” and was killed over money rather than for his faith in Christ.
Metropolitan Nektarios: Global system seeks to create “universal religion”
The Greek hierarch warned of the dangers posed by the global system.
OCU supporters stage provocation at soldier’s funeral in Polytsi
Relatives of the fallen soldier demanded that an OCU cleric conduct the funeral service inside a UOC church.
UOC Chancellor on OCU formation report: pressure, fear and suspicion
Metropolitan Anthony says the atmosphere of December 2018 described in the Phanar cleric’s report was the complete opposite of the love and freedom in which the Holy Spirit works.