Court keeps Metropolitan Arseniy in pre-trial detention
Metropolitan Arseniy (Yakovenko). Photo: Sviatohirsk Lavra
On January 30, 2025, the Sloviansk City District Court of Donetsk Region extended the detention period for the abbot of Sviatohirsk Lavra, Metropolitan Arseniy of Sviatohirsk. His previous arrest was set to expire on February 2, but the court ruled to keep Metropolitan Arseniy in the Dnipro pre-trial detention center for another 60 days, until March 30.
This decision was made despite requests from eleven Ukrainian Members of Parliament from various factions, who petitioned for his release on bail or under personal surety.
Metropolitan Arseniy’s lawyers are already preparing appeals against this court ruling.
Additionally, during the January 30 session, the court began considering a defense motion requesting permission to broadcast the trial hearings on the YouTube channel and website of "Judicial Power of Ukraine." The lawyers had filed this motion three months ago, arguing that a public broadcast would allow all interested parties to follow the case. However, no decision has been made on this matter yet, and its review will continue at the next hearing.
The next court session on Metropolitan Arseniy’s case is scheduled for February 4, 2025, and will be held online. The hearing is set to begin at 1:00 PM.
As previously reported by the UOJ, Metropolitan Arseniy has been in the Dnipro pre-trial detention center since April 24, 2024. Believers continue to call for prayers for the imprisoned bishop and the brotherhood of the Lavra.
Read also
In Odesa region, Jehovah's Witness sentenced to three years for draft evasion
A resident of the Odesa region who practices the religion of Jehovah's Witnesses received a real prison sentence due to his refusal to perform military service based on his convictions.
Metropolitan Theodosiy explains why persecutions benefit the Church
The bishop called not to justify evil but to see in trials an opportunity to achieve humility and love – the goals of Christian life.
Court finds Metropolitan Theodosiy guilty
The court found Metropolitan Theodosiy of Cherkasy guilty of inciting inter-religious hatred.
Foreign Minister congratulates Dumenko and presents him with valuable watch
Dumenko discussed with the Foreign Minister the role of the OCU during wartime and the significance of the Tomos of Autocephaly.
Kherson Holy Spirit Cathedral of UOC shelled again
Shells damaged the church roof, the bell tower and the chapel. The eparchial administration buildings also suffered from shelling.
Greek authorities to close illegal mosques in Athens
A large-scale inspection of religious sites has begun in Athens, during which authorities intend to close around 60 mosques operating without permits