Dumenko discusses "cleansing" Lavra of UOC with new Reserve Director
Epifaniy Dumenko and Acting Director of the Kyiv-Pechersk Lavra National Reserve Svitlana Kotliarevska. Photo: RISU
On May 27, 2025, Epifaniy Dumenko met with Svitlana Kotliarevska, newly appointed acting director of the Kyiv-Pechersk Lavra National Reserve, according to the press service of the Orthodox Church of Ukraine (OCU).
The two discussed “dialogue” between the OCU and the Reserve “to ensure the full operation and development of the monastery of the Orthodox Church of Ukraine within the Lavra’s walls.”
Additionally, Dumenko demanded that the Lavra’s caves be opened for the OCU and called for an end to “the groundless presence of representatives of the Moscow Patriarchate’s jurisdiction in the Reserve’s buildings.”
Dumenko and Kotliarevska agreed to “cooperate more closely” in order to “cleanse our outstanding Ukrainian shrine of the harmful influence of the so-called ‘Russian World’ ideology, which contradicts both spiritual values and the national interests of Ukraine.”
Dumenko expressed his confidence that the new leadership of the Reserve “will act more vigorously, within the framework of current legislation, to fully rid the Lavra of the influence of Moscow Patriarchate structures.”
Earlier, the UOJ reported that the Ministry of Culture had criticized the previous administration of the Lavra Reserve.
Read also
State Film Agency bans Ukrainian film "Prayer for Hetman Mazepa"
The film by renowned director Yuriy Illienko about Mazepa was banned due to the participation of an actor from the Russian Federation.
US state to introduce criminal liability for refusing to break confessional seal
The bill in Arizona could see priests facing felony charges if they fail to break the seal of confession after learning of child abuse during the sacrament.
Synod of Cyprus sets conditions for lifting Met. Tychikos' suspension
The Cypriot Synod linked the possible return of the hierarch to service with a number of requirements, including a written confession of faith and a refusal to appeal to a secular court.
Congresswoman takes control of possible takeover attempt in Kuzmyn
An American legislator responded to the appeal of UOC parishioners, publishing their video, and promising to seek accountability for attempts to seize churches.
OCU church in Kosmach cancels Christmas services due to calendar disputes
Disagreements over the date of Christmas celebrations in the Pre-Carpathian community have led to the services not taking place either in December or in January
Congresswoman: Zelensky waging war against his people over faith
An American legislator stated that Zelensky's policies have led to the persecution of believers and promised to respond to forceful actions against UOC parishes.