Dmytruk sends a parliamentary appeal to law enforcers on church seizures
An attempted seizure of a church in Kremenchuk. Photo: kremen-eparh.org
Ukrainian MP Artem Dmytruk has sent official appeals to the heads of all law enforcement agencies, the Prime Minister, the Speaker of the Verkhovna Rada, and the Human Rights Commissioner, as he announced on his Telegram channel. His actions were prompted by the seizure of UOC temples in Irpin, Kyiv region, and the attempted takeover of the shrines in Kremenchuk, Poltava region.
On September 19, 2024, in Irpin, OCU representatives, with the support of local authorities and police, seized the St. Nicholas Church of the UOC and chapel, cutting the locks and declaring the shrine their own property. Dmytruk claims that these actions were carried out under the leadership of the city's mayor, Oleksandr Markushyn, with the involvement of law enforcement, using force against believers and clergy.
On the same day, there was an attempt to seize the Assumption Cathedral and Trinity Church in Kremenchuk. According to Dmytruk, these actions, along with the support from authorities, are a continuation of violence against the country's largest religious denomination.
The MP strongly condemned these actions, stating: "The authorities continue the genocide of the Ukrainian people. Those who make such decisions and cover up these crimes will undoubtedly be held accountable for their actions."
As reported by the UOJ, Dmytruk had previously claimed that attempts were being made to imprison him for defending the UOC.
Read also
SBU told Phanar many UOC bishops would join OCU in 2018, report says
According to a Phanar representative’s account, Ukrainian security services told the Constantinople delegation that many UOC representatives were prepared to attend the OCU’s “Unification Council.” In the end, only two did.
Catholic cardinal visits Ukrainian POWs during trip to Russia
During three days of consultations in Moscow, Cardinal Matteo Zuppi discussed prospects for ending the war in Ukraine.
Ukrainians help restore Serbian Orthodox church in Paris
Orthodox Ukrainians have become regular parishioners of St. Sava Church in Paris and have taken part in its restoration.
Bulgarian Church clergy and laity oppose Phanar head’s visit
More than 2,000 clergy and laity have called for the Ecumenical Patriarch’s visit to be canceled, citing disagreement with his actions and concerns that the visit could legitimize schism.
Unknown intruders break down doors at two UOC churches in Sloviansk
Archbishop Paisiy said OCU activists are suspected of breaking into the churches in Sloviansk, and police have launched an investigation.
Sviatohirsk Lavra prays for murdered monk on 40th day after death
The brethren of the Sviatohirsk Lavra held a memorial service for murdered Monk Varsonofiy, calling on the faithful to pray for the newly departed monk.