Metropolitan Theodosiy speaks of planned raids on UOC churches in Cherkasy
Metropolitan Theodosiy. Photo: Screenshot from video t.me/palomnik7
On April 1, 2025, Metropolitan Theodosiy of Cherkasy and Kaniv (UOC) stated that, according to information from various sources, supporters of the Orthodox Church of Ukraine (OCU), with backing from security forces, may soon attempt to forcibly seize two churches in Cherkasy.
This time, the targeted churches are those of the Holy Apostle Andrew the First-Called and the Nativity of Christ in the city of Cherkasy.
The hierarch reported that employees in several publicly funded institutions were warned they must show up in the morning to participate in actions against the shrines of the Ukrainian Orthodox Church. Those who refuse, he said, are being threatened with possible dismissal.
The attack could happen in the coming days. As soon as the exact date and time are known, the Orthodox community of Cherkasy will be immediately informed.
Metropolitan Theodosiy called on clergy and parishioners to stand united and to "defend the holy places from the barbarians."
He emphasized that the churches in question, along with the land on which they stand, are the property of the Cherkasy Diocesan Administration of the UOC and are backed by all the necessary legal documentation.
"No so-called 'communities' have ever owned these churches, nor do they have any legal rights to them," the bishop stated.
He reminded that the illegal seizure of churches is a crime, and responsibility for such actions will fall not only on the organizers but also on all participants.
The Metropolitan also stressed that the faithful in Cherkasy do not intend to stand by idly: "We will not give up our holy places! We remember how they seized the cathedral, which now stands empty. The raiders have already brought shame on our city. Repent and fear God!"
Read also
SBU told Phanar many UOC bishops would join OCU in 2018, report says
According to a Phanar representative’s account, Ukrainian security services told the Constantinople delegation that many UOC representatives were prepared to attend the OCU’s “Unification Council.” In the end, only two did.
Catholic cardinal visits Ukrainian POWs during trip to Russia
During three days of consultations in Moscow, Cardinal Matteo Zuppi discussed prospects for ending the war in Ukraine.
Ukrainians help restore Serbian Orthodox church in Paris
Orthodox Ukrainians have become regular parishioners of St. Sava Church in Paris and have taken part in its restoration.
Bulgarian Church clergy and laity oppose Phanar head’s visit
More than 2,000 clergy and laity have called for the Ecumenical Patriarch’s visit to be canceled, citing disagreement with his actions and concerns that the visit could legitimize schism.
Unknown intruders break down doors at two UOC churches in Sloviansk
Archbishop Paisiy said OCU activists are suspected of breaking into the churches in Sloviansk, and police have launched an investigation.
Sviatohirsk Lavra prays for murdered monk on 40th day after death
The brethren of the Sviatohirsk Lavra held a memorial service for murdered Monk Varsonofiy, calling on the faithful to pray for the newly departed monk.