Met. Theodosiy after seizure: "Behold, your house is left to you desolate"

Metropolitan Theodosiy. Photo: Video by the Cherkasy Eparchy

On October 17, Metropolitan Theodosiy of Cherkasy and Kaniv addressed the faithful of the Ukrainian Orthodox Church (UOC) following the seizure of the Archangel Michael Cathedral in Cherkasy by radicals. During the assault, tear gas was used, which, as seen in the video, appeared to cause vision problems for the Metropolitan. Despite the challenges, he urged the faithful to remain steadfast and expressed confidence that the church would once again be filled with grace when the believers could return.

"Brothers and sisters! We did everything we could. We tried to defend our cathedral from the bandits. Unfortunately, against such force, there is no recourse. Thus, our shrine has been seized, albeit illegally," said Metropolitan Theodosiy.

He mentioned that the UOC would appeal to the courts regarding the situation with the cathedral, noting that seeking justice would be difficult due to the political situation: "Of course, we will try to seek the truth in court, but knowing how these matters are currently resolved here, with purely political considerations, there is little hope."

The UOC hierarch also reminded the faithful that their spiritual connection with the church remains, even if they have temporarily lost access to the sanctuary, quoting the Gospel, "Behold, your house is left to you desolate."

"Along with us, divine grace departs from the cathedral. Along with us, the protection and help of Archangel Michael and the holy martyr Macarius depart." He urged the faithful not to lose hope and to remain confident that the faithful of the UOC would surely return there.

Addressing those who were injured during the assault, the Metropolitan gave practical advice on dealing with injuries. He spoke of priests with knocked-out teeth, fractures, and possible concussions: "Brothers and sisters, all who have suffered today, seek medical help and take care of yourselves. The Lord will surely reward each of you according to the strength of your faith and your desire to defend the Church."

Metropolitan Theodosiy also noted that if church raids continue, the faithful will be compelled to pray underground: "Stay in touch with your priests, gather in apartments, homes, attics, basements, and we will pray and hold Divine Liturgies underground." In conclusion, the UOC hierarch blessed everyone, calling for unity and prayer: "The Lord is with us, the Mother of God is with us, Archangel Michael is with us, and the holy martyr Macarius will never abandon us!"

As reported by the Union of Orthodox Journalists, unidentified men in camouflage uniforms seized the UOC cathedral in Cherkasy on their second attempt.

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