Four criminal cases opened against UOC believers over Cherkasy clashes
Seizure of the UOC Cathedral in Cherkasy, October 17, 2024. Photo: religionnews
In Cherkasy, police have issued formal suspicions against four defenders of the Archangel Michael Cathedral of the Ukrainian Orthodox Church (UOC). Among them are two laypeople and two clergymen. They are accused under Article 296 of the Criminal Code of Ukraine – hooliganism, according to the kozakTv1 Telegram channel.
Authorities have also opened a criminal case against Father Oleksandr Smyk, the trustee of the Marfo-Mariinsky Sisterhood. Meanwhile, the case against Father Roman Horkavenko has already been sent to court. "He is apparently accused of using a pepper spray canister against hired OCU militants who stormed the Archangel Michael Cathedral of the UOC," journalists report.
According to available information, the investigation is proceeding at an accelerated pace.
As previously reported by the UOJ, Metropolitan Theodosiy has urged law enforcement not to participate in persecution against the Church.
Read also
UOC priest’s home damaged in drone strike on Poltava
The home of Archpriest Kostiantyn Fisun, rector of St. Seraphim Church in Poltava, was damaged in a drone attack.
Kyiv Theological Schools begin enrollment for catechetical courses
The Kyiv Theological Academy has announced enrollment for the St. Peter Mohyla Catechetical Courses for laypeople.
Greek hierarch criticizes new school textbooks containing LGBT propaganda
Metropolitan Seraphim called on parents to monitor school lessons in order to protect their children.
Site blessed for new church construction in Oleksandriia Eparchy
On the feast day of St. Seraphim of Sarov, Metropolitan Boholep laid a foundation capsule for a new church.
World Council of Churches condemns confiscation of Evangelical church in Iran
Secretary General Jerry Pillay demanded the return of the St. Peter's Church compound to believers.
Poland repeals law recognizing same-sex unions concluded in EU
The court ruled that the registration of foreign same-sex unions contradicts the article of the Constitution defining marriage as a union of a man and a woman.