Metropolitan Longin's trial postponed due to health deterioration
The lawyer of Metropolitan Longin near the courthouse on September 23, 2025 Photo: Bancheny Monastery
On September 23, 2025, another session of the Hertsa District Court was held regarding the case of Metropolitan Longin (Zhara).
As reported by the bishop's lawyer, the defense filed two motions to recuse the presiding judge due to her bias. According to the lawyer, the judge systematically ignores the procedural rights of the metropolitan.
In his address to the faithful who came to support him at the courthouse, the bishop also emphasized that he is not being given the opportunity to present his own position on the case.
According to the lawyer, both motions for recusal have not yet been granted, but the defense intends to continue seeking their consideration, as they cannot trust the current composition of the court.
The session was interrupted due to the deterioration of the metropolitan's health: during the hearing, he experienced a hypertensive crisis.
The next court session was scheduled for September 24, however, as reported by the defense representative, it is likely to be postponed if the bishop's condition does not stabilize. The exact date of the next hearing will be announced further.
As reported by the UOJ, Metropolitan Longin stated that his orphanage is facing closure.
Read also
Patriarch Bartholomew congratulates Patriarch Shio on his election
In his message of congratulations, Patriarch Bartholomew called for joint witness before the world within the framework of “pan-Orthodox unity.”
Most Holy Theotokos Belt to arrive in UOC's Mukachevo Eparchy
From May 17 to June 1, 2026, the faithful of Zakarpattia will have the opportunity to venerate one of Christianity’s great holy relics.
Scholars unveil restored 13th-century icon from Rivne region
Researchers have completed the restoration of the Hodegetria icon and are preparing it for an exhibition in Lviv.
Patriarch Daniel calls euthanasia unacceptable
The Primate of the Bulgarian Orthodox Church stressed that medical workers are called to be “co-workers with God,” not accomplices in taking life.
European Union congratulates Patriarch Shio III on his election
The official EU Delegation in Georgia expressed hope in the spiritual wisdom of the new Primate.
Pope calls on Christians and Muslims to jointly “revive humanity”
Pope Leo XIV called on Catholics and Muslims to unite in helping the poor and combating spiritual apathy.