Rector in Stanivtsi: We would have died of despair unless we were believers

Worship service at the chapel. Photo: UOJ

On the Feast of the Entry of the Lord into Jerusalem, the rector of the St. Nicholas community in the Bukovynian village of Verkhni Stanivtsi – whose church was forcibly taken by raiders the day before – addressed the faithful with a sermon. Priest Ihor Pyts urged them not to lose heart in the face of injustice and persecution. The community gathered near a small chapel owned by the parish.

“This year, we celebrate the feast in a special way – with sorrow. But I want to assure you that these sufferings, these tears, we shed for Christ and for the Church of God,” the priest said.

He reminded the parishioners of Christ’s commandment: “Blessed are those who are persecuted for righteousness’ sake, for theirs is the Kingdom of Heaven,” noting that these words are heard at every Liturgy – but until recently, often went unnoticed. Now, in light of recent events, they have taken on new meaning.

According to him, believers must avoid becoming embittered, despite their pain and sense of injustice. “We are believers, and we know that there is no true justice on earth. Justice is in heaven,” the priest said.

“If we didn’t believe in God, if we were unbelievers, we would simply have died of despair. Because despair takes such hold of people that they simply give up. But we are believers – and we will not give up,” the rector declared.

He also noted that prayer unites the community and called on the faithful to pray regardless of location – “be it in a church, a chapel, a field, or a forest.”

The priest spoke about the church seizures occurring in Bukovyna and expressed hope that through the prayers of the faithful, “truth and peace will prevail.”

“We believe that the Lord will hear our prayers, and one day – sooner or later – we will return to our church and once again, with one heart and one voice, glorify the name of God,” the rector concluded.

Earlier, the UOJ reported that the OCU, with police support, seized the UOC church in Verkhni Stanivtsi.

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