Zastavna parishioners share a video about life before and after seizure

OCU cleric breaking the gate of the UOC church in Zastavna. Photo: UOJ

The UOC community of the Nativity of the Theotokos in the town of Zastavna, Bukovina, published a video message describing the life of the parish before and after the forcible takeover of their church by supporters of the OCU.

In the video, the faithful recall with sorrow how for many years the church bells summoned people not to alarming gatherings, but to shared Eucharist, the joy of unity in Christ, and the peaceful glorification of His Holy Name.

However, the community's peaceful life was disrupted.

The video states that on February 3, 2025, unlawful gatherings were held in the center of Zastavna, “in which, contrary to the requirements of the parish charter and current legislation, 392 outsiders took part in deciding internal matters of the religious community.” As a result of these meetings, the participants decided to transfer the parish to the OCU.

The UOC believers stated that despite public claims of rejecting “radical approaches,” the supporters of the transfer resorted to a violent church seizure instead of dialogue or legal justification: “Instead of dialogue or legal arguments, they came to our church with a crowbar. We were shown the true intentions and methods of those who speak of spirituality but act with force.”

What pains the victims most is the role played by authorities and law enforcement in facilitating these events. “When those whose duty it is to uphold the law and defend citizens' rights instead assist in lawlessness, it leaves a deep wound,” the video message states.

Despite everything, the community continues to exist. “It is love for God, for our neighbors, and for our native land that gives us strength,” the believers affirm. The footage shows injuries suffered by parishioners during the assault on the church. Some have deep bruises, one woman had a finger broken, and a man – his arm.

After losing access to their church, the community now worships in a small house. It is cramped, but their spirits remain strong.

“We firmly believe that the Lord is leading us on the path of salvation. And it is this faith that anchors us in the storms of life. It inspires us to prayer, mutual love, and witness to the truth,” the UOC parishioners of Zastavna conclude.

Earlier, the UOJ published shocking footage of an OCU cleric, leading an aggressive mob, personally breaking through the churchyard gate and then the doors of the Nativity of the Theotokos Church.

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