Lavra brethren congratulate Metropolitan Pavel on 31 years as abbot

Metropolitan Pavel. Photo: Kyiv-Pechersk Lavra website

The brethren of the Kyiv-Pechersk Lavra congratulated their abbot, Metropolitan Pavel, on the 31st anniversary of his service as head of the ancient monastery. In their congratulatory letter, the monks highlighted the Metropolitan’s role in the Lavra’s revival following years of Soviet neglect.

“Over these years, with God’s help and under your wise leadership, the Lavra has flourished. You dedicated your life to its restoration, to mentoring the brotherhood, and caring for all who sought spiritual refuge here,” the message reads.

The brethren expressed gratitude to their abbot for his efforts, spiritual support, and “unwavering faithfulness to the Church.”

In closing, the monks shared their hope of returning to their home monastery: “We believe that the Lord will arrange all things for His glory, and that we will once again be able to pray together within the holy Lavra’s sacred walls!”

As a reminder, in March 2023, the Ukrainian government decided to terminate the lease of the Kyiv-Pechersk Lavra held by the Ukrainian Orthodox Church. Since then, court proceedings have been ongoing regarding the state’s eviction of the monks from their monastery.

Criminal proceedings were opened against Metropolitan Pavel on what the UOC describes as fabricated charges. He spent several months in detention and is currently under house arrest.

Since August 10, 2023, access for worshippers to the Lower Lavra, where the monastery is located, has been closed by the authorities.

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