In Kyiv, OCU “priest” lights a menorah near his church
OCU “priest” Oleh Sknar lights a Jewish menorah together with a rabbi. Photo: Moshe Reuven Asman
On December 15, 2025, a Jewish Hanukkah menorah was lit near the Intercession Church of the OCU on the grounds of a military hospital in Kyiv, Ukraine’s Chief Rabbi Moshe Reuven Asman reported.
The lighting ceremony was conducted by the rector of the Intercession Church and OCU chaplain Oleh Sknar. As the rabbi noted, the event has been held on the hospital grounds for the third consecutive year. “This has already become something of a tradition – a symbol of support and gratitude to all those who are defending Ukraine at the cost of their health,” Asman said.
The Intercession Church previously belonged to the Ukrainian Orthodox Church. Immediately after the establishment of the OCU in 2019, Sknar organized a vote to transfer the parish to the new structure.
Earlier, the UOJ reported that an OCU cleric lit a Jewish menorah together with Ukraine’s Chief Rabbi.
Read also
Major U.S. hospital network refuses to implement new assisted suicide law
Advocate Health Care said it would not participate in Illinois’ assisted suicide program.
OCU activists call TRC to service of persecuted UOC community in Kremenchuk
After seizing the Holy Trinity Church in Kremenchuk, Dumenko's followers attempted to disrupt the worship service of UOC believers held in the open air.
Bila Tserkva authorities attempting to seize monastery building from UOC
The Bila Tserkva City Council is attempting to reclaim the buildings of the St. Mary Magdalene Convent for communal ownership through the courts.
Egyptian police arrest Christians targeted in Muslim attacks
Copts were released once they withdrew their complaints against their assailants.
Primate of Macedonian Church congratulates Lavra's abbot on name day
Archbishop Stefan noted the zeal of the Lavra's abbot, who shares the sorrows of his flock.
Persecuted community in Stari Broskivtsi marks patronal feast in new church
The rector thanked the faithful for building a new church to replace the one that was seized.