Patriarch Theophilos of Jerusalem supports persecuted UOC bishops

Patriarch Theophilos and the delegation of the Rivne Diocese. Photo: Rivne Diocese

Pilgrims from the Rivne Diocese of the UOC, during their trip to the Holy Land, met with Patriarch Theophilos III of Jerusalem, reports the press service of the diocese.

The delegation included Archbishop Pimen of Rivne and Ostroh, the head of the Rivne Diocese. During the meeting, the archbishop greeted Patriarch Theophilos, expressed gratitude for his hospitality, and emphasized the importance of this meeting for the faithful from Ukraine.

In response, Patriarch Theophilos thanked the pilgrims and the faithful of the Ukrainian Orthodox Church for their dedication and prayers. He sent his greetings to the UOC representatives through Archbishop Pimen, particularly noting bishops such as Vladyka Pavel and Vladyka Arseniy, who are currently facing criminal persecution by the authorities. The Patriarch also highlighted the shared challenges faced by both Ukraine and Israel and expressed his support for the Ukrainian people during these difficult times.

Archbishop Pimen expressed his sincere gratitude to the Patriarch of Jerusalem for the warm reception and support of the Ukrainian Orthodox Church.

As previously reported by the UOJ, Patriarch Theophilos of Jerusalem urged Ukrainian authorities to repeal law banning UOC.

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