In Western European Vicariate of UOC, the first monastic tonsure performed

Bishop Benjamin of Boyarka performing a monastic tonsure at the UOC parish in Italy. Photo: Facebook UOC in Italy

On August 15, 2025, the head of the Western European Vicariate of the UOC, Bishop Benjamin of Boyarka, performed a monastic tonsure at the parish of the Nativity of the Prophet and Forerunner John in Forte dei Marmi, Italy. This was reported on the Facebook page of UOC communities in Italy.

The rector of the Holy Trinity parish in Cecina, Archpriest Viktor Radchuk was tonsured as monk. In the tonsure, the priest received the name Anthony – in honor of St. Anthony of the Caves.

After the tonsure, Bishop Benjamin in his speech emphasized the importance of the monastic feat and drew attention to the special nature of this event – the first monastic tonsure in the Western European Vicariate of the UOC.

Bishop Benjamin drew a spiritual parallel with Venerable Anthony as the founder of monastic life in Rus', noting that the current tonsure is of great significance for the spiritual strengthening of the vicariate.

"The tonsure was attended by the dean of UOC parishes in Italy, Archpriest Ioann Malysh, the brethren of the vicariate and representatives from other countries, numerous parishioners and guests who came to share the joy and offer a joint prayer for the newly tonsured," the message says.

In conclusion, the UOC hierarch asked for God's blessing for monk Anthony, and all present congratulated him ontaking monastic vows.

After the tonsure, an evenng Dovone Liturgy was performed, during which prayers were offered for the newly tonsured monk, as well as for peace in Ukraine.

As reported by the UOJ, a congress of Ukrainian Orthodox youth of Western Europe was held in Spain.

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