In Vinnytsia Eparchy, KDAiS rector speaks on autocephaly

Archbishop Sylvester of Bilohorod during an open podcast meeting in Vinnytsia, September 15, 2025. Photo: Vinnytsia Eparchy of the UOC

On September 15, 2025, an open meeting in the format of a public podcast was held in Vinnytsia on the theme “Autocephaly – Opportunity or Dead End.” The Vinnytsia Eparchy of the Ukrainian Orthodox Church reported on the event.

The guest speaker was Professor, Rector of the Kyiv Theological Academy and Seminary, Archbishop Sylvester of Bilohorod (Stoychev). In his address, he examined in detail the essence of the concept of autocephaly, its historical development, and theological meaning, as well as examples of granting independence to various Local Churches in different eras.

The hierarch paid special attention to the Ukrainian church question. He emphasized that the issue of autocephaly is closely tied to the canonical norms and tradition of the Orthodox Church, and therefore any attempts at its realization must be considered solely in the light of the universal Church’s experience. According to the archbishop, hasty or politically motivated steps can only deepen divisions and harm the unity of the Church.

A separate section of the discussion addressed canonical paths for a possible granting of autocephaly. Archbishop Sylvester stressed that this process requires a conciliar approach, well-considered decisions, and agreement within the Orthodox world. Only in this way is it possible to secure genuine spiritual unity and avoid schisms.

Participants of the podcast had the opportunity to freely ask questions and receive well-reasoned answers from the respected guest. According to the organizers, the meeting became an important event in the church life of Vinnytsia, allowing discussion of relevant and complex issues facing the Ukrainian Orthodox Church.

Earlier, the UOJ reported that the head of the “autocephalous church of Belarus” declared his support for Constantinople.

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