Rivne Diocese of the OCU opposes mobilization of clergy
OCU chaplains. Photo: society.comments.ua
The Rivne Diocese of the Orthodox Church of Ukraine (OCU) has issued a statement opposing the mobilization of "priests" for the war with Russia.
The Rivne Diocese of the OCU believes that "clergy help people find the path to God, uphold moral values, and preserve spiritual traditions, and during war, this mission becomes even more important."
"Mobilizing clergy without taking their mission into account can have serious consequences for the spiritual life of the Ukrainian people. The Church is responsible for the spiritual well-being of its believers, and we must ensure that every community has a priest providing necessary support," the statement reads.
The Rivne Diocese of the OCU stated that they are ready to cooperate with the government on the issue of mobilization but suggested that only those "priests" willing to serve as chaplains and who are sent with the Church's blessing and the state's consent should go to the front lines.
"At the same time, other priests should remain in their communities, providing the necessary spiritual support to those who stay behind," the diocese wrote.
Earlier, the UOJ reported that an OCU cleric accused the Territorial Recruitment Centers of forced mobilization and the abduction of parishioners.
Read also
Nicaraguan authorities release 1,200 prisoners for Holy Week
In Nicaragua, more than a thousand inmates were released from prison during Holy Week and sent home under a “family cohabitation” regime, with an appeal to begin a “new life.”
Roman Catholics launch petition for return of historic building in Odesa
The Roman Catholic Church in Ukraine says there is a risk of losing the building and is urging people to support a petition calling for the return of a historic seminary property in Odesa to the Catholic community.
Fire breaks out near Holy Trinity Church in Kharkiv after shelling
A large fire broke out near the Holy Trinity Church in Kharkiv following a strike by Russian forces, while the church itself, according to the eparchy, was not damaged.
Media: Canadian clinics offer elderly patients euthanasia instead of treatment
An 84-year-old Catholic woman in Canada says she was offered euthanasia instead of treatment for a non-terminal condition. She refused, as her husband had done before her.
Greek bishop links Russian SVR claims against Patriarch Bartholomew to OCU
Metropolitan Iosif described the accusations as “lies” and an “anti-church reaction,” linking them to opposition to the recognition of the OCU.
UOC St. Nicholas Protection Cathedral in Druzhkivka damaged in shelling
In the Donetsk region, shelling damaged the UOC St. Nicholas Protection Cathedral – the roof was torn apart, parts of the ceiling collapsed, and damage was recorded inside the church.