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.

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