During church raid in Chernivtsi, police threw ruling bishop to the ground
Metropolitan Meletiy on the ground during the seizure of the cathedral. Photo: UOJ
On June 17, 2025, during the seizure of the Holy Spirit Cathedral of the UOC in Chernivtsi, police used force against Metropolitan Meletiy of Chernivtsi. This is confirmed by video footage obtained by the Union of Orthodox Journalists.
In the video, the hierarch is seen lying on the ground surrounded by police officers, while parishioners rush to assist him.
“They threw the Vladyka down, they beat him,” one of the faithful says, pointing to an officer in a balaclava who is trying to retreat.
Several people struggle to lift the Metropolitan from the ground and give him water. The balaclava is torn off the officer’s head.
Earlier, the UOJ reported that during the assault, police sprayed Metropolitan Meletiy with tear gas. The faithful who were nearby laid him on a bench and rendered first aid.
Read also
American missionary stated that he is amazed by the faith of the Serbian people
A priest from the USA visited Saint Sava Cathedral to venerate the Belt of the Mother of God and found an example of true piety in the Serbian capital.
MinCulture allows OCU to "restore" prayer services in Lavra's Near Caves
Attendance at OCU prayer services in the Near Caves is permitted only by prior registration and under the supervision of OCU representatives.
LGBT march takes place in Jerusalem
Liberal opposition in Israel has turned the annual LGBT march into a large-scale political action against the current government.
In England, Catholics launch official dialogue with Pentecostals
In London, Catholics discussed with Pentecostals the possibilities for joint preaching of the Gospel.
Pentagon excludes 180 denominations from list of recognized religions
The Pentagon chief ordered to conceal the military ranks of military chaplains, emphasizing their priority service to God.
Archbishop of Cyprus warns Met. Tychikos: vacate or face police
The former Metropolitan of Paphos, Tychikos, received a reply from Archbishop Georgios to his letter, in which the primate reportedly threatened to call the police if the hierarch failed to leave by the deadline.