OCU "hierarch" complains about difficulties in transitioning UOC priests
Ivan Yaremenko "serves" in a seized UOC cathedral. Photo: Facebook of the Cherkasy Eparchy of the OCU
The head of the Cherkasy Eparchy of the OCU, Ivan Yaremenko, expressed dissatisfaction with the refusal of Ukrainian Orthodox Church (UOC) clergy in the region to join his structure, even in cases where their churches were seized. According to Yaremenko, only one UOC priest transitioned to the OCU in 2024. He shared this in a comment to Suspilne.Cherkasy.
According to Yaremenko, in 2024, the OCU seized 30 churches that belonged to the UOC. However, in only one instance did a UOC priest agree to transition to the OCU along with their parish. Since 2022, the OCU in the Cherkasy region has taken over about 100 churches. As a result, only three UOC churches remain in Cherkasy itself, which, as claimed, is the result of joint actions by the OCU and radical activists.
"This year, there are no priests who truly care about their community. Only one was found. As for Kanev and Cherkasy, it always involves disputes and fights. These churches are clearly more important as 'strongholds of the Russian world,' for which they fiercely fight," Yaremenko stated.
As previously reported by the UOJ, Metropolitan Theodosiy spoke about the looting by OCU "clergy" led by "Metropolitan" Ivan Yaremenko.
Read also
Orthodox Christians in U.S.: “War on Faith” bill ignores persecution of UOC
The St. John of Shanghai and San Francisco Society has accused Congressmen Joe Wilson and Don Bacon of “double standards” in drafting a religious freedom bill concerning Ukraine.
Memorial service held at Tbilisi cathedral on 40th day of Patriarch Ilia’s repose
A memorial service for the Patriarch of Georgia was held at the Dormition Cathedral, with government officials, clergy, and laypeople praying at the service.
In Britain, House of Lords rejects euthanasia bill
The British House of Lords did not support the euthanasia bill, citing insufficient safeguards and the risk of pressure on the elderly, the ill, and people with disabilities.
SBU detains UOC cleric for "awaiting complete occupation of Ukraine"
According to the SBU's claims, the priest left for the RF after 2014 to secure support from the leadership of the Russian Orthodox Church, and then began serving in the Dnipropetrovsk region.
Epifaniy hands over Tomos copy for sale at auction in Chernivtsi
The head of the OCU discussed with border guards the use of monasteries for military rehabilitation.
In Kyiv, artist desecrates priest image and icons for new song promotion
Ivan Liulenov used the image of priestly vestments and decorated alcoholic cocktails with images in the form of icons.