Expert comments on persecution of Lomachenko for his UOC affiliation
Vasyl Lomachenko. Photo: Screenshot from YouTube channel Top Rank
Sports expert Andriy Zuyev has spoken in defense of Ukrainian boxer Vasyl Lomachenko, who is facing criticism in Ukrainian media for his association with the Ukrainian Orthodox Church (UOC). In an interview with Champion, Zuyev emphasized that the persecution of Lomachenko for his religious beliefs is inappropriate, as religious preferences are a personal matter and should not impact his professional accomplishments.
“Why are we targeting a man who has been a boxer since childhood? And it seems that Orthodoxy is a family tradition for them. Shouldn’t society focus on more pressing issues?” Zuyev stated.
He also noted that despite the criticism, the UOC remains popular among Ukrainians, with many people still attending its churches, baptizing their children, getting married, and holding funeral services there, including those for individuals who have died in the war.
“Yet people are attacking Vasya the boxer. Ukrainians are quick to judge and condemn. But when it comes to curing our ‘deep-seated corruption,’ we’re not that quick” the expert added.
Zuyev called for greater tolerance and understanding regarding Lomachenko's religious beliefs, stating that this should not be a matter for public condemnation.
Previously, Vasyl Lomachenko spoke in an interview with the UOJ about his spiritual journey, reflecting on whether one image of God can harm another and sharing his vision for the future of the UOC.
Read also
Metropolitan Onuphry: We must keep Prince Volodymyr's legacy – faith of love
On the feast day of the Holy Equal-to-the-Apostles Prince Volodymyr, His Beatitude Onuphry urged the faithful to preserve the faith founded on love for God and neighbor.
UOC Primate leads celebrations of Baptism of Rus' at Lavra
Divine services were held at the Kyiv-Pechersk Lavra on the feast day of St. Volodymyr the Great and the Day of the Baptism of Rus'.
US blogger who interviewed Zelensky: No Muslims in Ukraine? It's refreshing
Laura Loomer said after interviewing Volodymyr Zelensky that there are no Muslims left in Ukraine, calling it a positive development.
Combat units of radical groups presented at Lavra Refectory Church
A combat corps for those who view war as a responsibility before God was presented within the walls of the Lavra.
Zoria complains to Kenyan Anglicans about Russia's "hybrid war"
In Nairobi, an OCU delegation discussed the situation in Ukraine with an Anglican canon.
OCU cleric joins UOC-KP
The head of the UOC-KP, Nikodym Kobzar, accepted a "deacon" from the OCU's Rivne Eparchy under his direct authority.