UOC faithful of Hilcha pray in parishioner's house after losing church

A temporary church of the UOC community in the residential house of a parishioner in the village of Hilcha. Photo: Press Service of the Rivne Eparchy of the UOC

On July 7, 2025, the Feast of the Nativity of the Prophet, Forerunner, and Baptist of the Lord John, Archbishop Pimen of Rivne and Ostroh celebrated the Divine Liturgy in the temporary church of the Ukrainian Orthodox Church in the village of Hilcha. This was reported by the press service of the Rivne Eparchy.

The service took place in an old house, which was donated three years ago by a 90-year-old local parishioner, Maria. She used to live in this house herself, and now it has become a place of prayer, equipped by the believers.

The community's move to temporary premises became a forced step after they were deprived of access to the church in 2022. According to the parishioners, at that time, pressure was exerted on the rector, and threats were made demanding the cessation of services. Despite this, the liturgical and parish life in the village did not cease.

The festive Liturgy was attended by local residents and pilgrims from nearby villages. Special prayers were offered for peace in Ukraine, the soldiers, the captives, and those who suffer.

At the end of the service, Archbishop Pimen addressed the faithful with an archpastoral word: "I thank you for your strength of spirit. You did not become confused, did not despair, and did not lose your living connection with God. You have shown that the Church is not in the walls, but in the hearts of those who sincerely pray, who believe and stand together."

Earlier, the UOJ reported that a procession with the Vladimir Icon of the Mother of God took place in the Cherkasy region.

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