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
Czech authorities intend to seize three largest churches from Church, source
In Prague, preparations have begun to terminate lease agreements concluded with Orthodox church communities.
Rome's basilica bust re-attributed to Michelangelo
A marble bust that has stood for centuries in one of Rome’s basilicas has been re-attributed to Michelangelo after nearly 200 years in obscurity.
In USA, the number of "non-believers" reaches historic high
The share of Americans without religious affiliation has reached a record high, with less than half the population considering faith important.
U.S. defense secretary: War with Iran is fight against “religious fanatics”
The U.S. defense secretary described the conflict with Iran as a struggle against religious fanatics and urged troops to seek a connection with Almighty God.
Dumenko holds religious events at Lavra's Warm Church
Dumenko held an event at the Warm Church of the Lavra for the first time, announcing plans to "return" the shrine under the control of his structure.