Metropolitan Theodosiy asks for prayers for the mobilized UOC cleric

Metropolitan Theodosiy. Photo: Screenshot from the Cherkasy Eparchy video

Metropolitan Theodosiy of Cherkasy and Kaniv made a statement regarding the mobilization of a priest from the Cherkasy Eparchy of the UOC, Archpriest Ioann Polishchuk. According to the UOC hierarch, the priest was mobilized on the evening of October 1. The appeal from Metropolitan Theodosiy was published by the Cherkasy Eparchy.

"Last night, he was urgently mobilized and sent away – today he is already at the Uzhhorod training ground. I appeal to all those who can influence this: Please help in the release of the priest. According to the canonical rules of the Orthodox Church, a clergyman cannot participate in military actions," said the Metropolitan.

He also called on the clergy and laity to pray for the release of Father Ioann: "May the Lord free him and reunite him with his family."

It should be recalled that Father Ioann Polishchuk was detained on October 1 in Kremenets by representatives of the Territorial Recruitment Center (TRC) as part of forced mobilization. The priest had recently returned from Germany, where he had been providing spiritual care to UOC parishioners.

Read also

UOC metropolitan addressing UN calls for return of Cherkasy cathedral

Metropolitan Theodosiy of the Ukrainian Orthodox Church (UOC) has addressed diplomats and representatives of international organizations, speaking out against violations of the rights of UOC believers.

Cherkasy sisters of mercy express support for Kyiv-Pechersk Lavra brethren

The sisters of the Martha and Mary Convent hope that the holy relics and the Lavra will soon be returned to Orthodox believers.