Media shows conditions in which persecuted communities of Volyn have to pray

A repurposed facility where prayers are held in the village of Tvorynychi. Photo: Konkuret

Journalists from the Lutsk and Volyn website Konkurent published photographs of the spaces where UOC communities continue their prayer life.

"Here are the so-called 'churches,'" wrote media representatives, who seem dissatisfied with the catacomb-like conditions in which UOC parishioners are forced to pray after their churches were transferred to the OCU. The journalists shared images from the Lokachyn Deanery.

The comments on the publication included offensive remarks, such as suggesting the UOC belongs in barns. However, some readers expressed support for the persecuted communities.

"Christ was also born in a barn!" one commenter reminded.

Another user, Parishioner, wrote: "You say, 'The community has no churches,' but you took them away. Well, God won't come with a stick to punish you. His holy will be done. 🙏"

Alexei commented: "Good for them. 'Bless those who persecute you; bless and do not curse.'"

Another commenter, Justice, added: "You mock them like children who have driven out God. You cannot understand that faith cannot be taken from the heart. This is not the first time such persecution has happened – Christ was also crucified and expelled. But has it made you feel better? Why can’t you calm down? You spread articles like this, but what do you gain? A little discussion, but does it make you happier? I doubt it. Half of you don’t even know the Lord’s Prayer, and the other half would sell their own mother for money. Rejoice in your health, but we all will face God’s judgment, and money won’t help then."

As previously reported by the UOJ, a Volyn deputy incited physical violence against UOC believers.

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