Yelensky discusses Ukrainian parishes in Germany with Constantinople bishop

Yelensky in Berlin. Photo: DESS

On October 14, 2025, Viktor Yelensky, head of the State Service for Ethnopolitics and Freedom of Conscience (DESS), met in Berlin with Bishop Emmanuel (Sfiatkos) of the German Metropolis of the Ecumenical Patriarchate. The meeting took place at the Parish of the Ascension of Christ.

The main topics of discussion were the spiritual care of Ukrainians residing in Germany and the specifics of German legislation concerning relations between the state and religious institutions. Special attention was given to how Ukrainian Orthodox communities can obtain official status in Germany.

The report did not specify whether the UOC parishes were discussed during the meeting.

That same day, Yelensky also held a meeting at the Ukrainian Embassy in Germany with Ukrainian Orthodox and Greek Catholic clergy, during which the sides discussed ways to improve pastoral support for Ukrainians who had migrated to Germany because of the war.

Earlier, the UOJ reported that the Cologne authorities honored a UOC parish for its contribution to the city’s public life.

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