Pochaiv Lavra explains why it did not allow Ministry of Culture Commission

Press Secretary of Pochaiv Lavra. Photo: Pochaiv Leaflet

On January 17, a commission from the Kremenets-Pochaiv State Historical and Architectural Reserve visited the Holy Dormition Pochaiv Lavra once again. Following the visit, the brethren expressed their disagreement with the actions of the commission, appealing to the faithful for prayerful support. Father Gavriil, the monastery’s press secretary, recorded a video message asking for holy prayers for the brethren and the monastery during this time.

According to the Lavra, the monks have repeatedly cooperated with the reserve, facilitating the work of various commissions, including a property audit in the summer of 2024. However, the audit report was never provided, raising doubts among the brethren about the commission's integrity. Eventually, according to Fr. Gavriil, they obtained the report from other sources, which included a recommendation to the Ministry of Culture to terminate the monastery's lease agreement.

Yesterday, the commission visited the Lavra to inventory not only the immovable property but also the movable assets. The brethren protested, citing the 2003 agreement between the State Construction Committee and the Lavra, which does not stipulate such inspections.

Fr. Gavriil also emphasized that the monastery is being preserved in good condition for future generations of Orthodox Christians:
"There are no illegal activities here; no one is destroying or damaging the sanctuary. The sanctuary, as you can see, is developing and being adorned with a new church thanks to your prayers."

As previously reported by the UOJ, on June 5, 2024, a Ministry of Culture commission, accompanied by police, began inspecting the Pochaiv Lavra.

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