Baumeister: Backing persecution of UOC is indelible shame for UCCRO members

Volodymyr Zelensky and UCCRO representatives in 2024. Photo: president.gov.ua

For some members of the All-Ukrainian Council of Churches and Religious Organizations (UCCRO), supporting the Ukrainian authorities in their persecution of the Ukrainian Orthodox Church (UOC) will be an “indelible shame.” Doctor of Philosophy Andriy Baumeister made this statement in an interview on journalist Oleksandr Shelest’s channel on February 20.

Commenting on the persecution of the UOC between 2022 and 2024, the Ukrainian philosopher emphasized that the stance of certain AUCCRO representatives on this issue will remain an irredeemable stain. However, he added that for some, supporting the authorities in their oppression of the Church was simply "a cynical job."

"Many still remember the Soviet-era KGB, and let’s be honest – it is not the first time they have served the system by either suppressing or turning a blind eye to crimes," he added.

As a believer, Baumeister also stated that this issue provides them with "a great opportunity for repentance and for re-evaluating their lives and decisions."

As previously reported by the UOJ, Baumeister earlier stated that the persecution of the UOC is one of the greatest crimes committed by the Ukrainian authorities.

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