OCU swaps its “metropolitans” in Vinnytsia and Khmelnytskyi
Shostatskyi and Yurystyi will exchange eparchies. Photo: OCU
The OCU has decided to swap two of its ruling “bishops” in Vinnytsia and Khmelnytskyi. On February 2, 2026, the synod of this structure announced that Metropolitan Simeon (Shostatskyi) will be transferred from Vinnytsia to Khmelnytskyi and will become “Metropolitan of Khmelnytskyi and Shepetivka, ruling the Khmelnytskyi Eparchy.” In turn, Pavlo Yurystyi will be transferred in the opposite direction and will serve as “Archbishop of Vinnytsia and Bar, ruling the Vinnytsia–Bar Eparchy.”
The OCU synod did not explain the reasons for this reshuffle.
Earlier, the UOJ reported that the OCU intends to issue an address to “believers and bishops dependent on the position of the Russian Orthodox Church.”
Read also
Suspension of Metropolitan Tychikos from ministry is unlawful, lawyer says
Lawyers say that the removal of Metropolitan Tychikos is a decision that, from the outset, lacks canonical, legal, and institutional legitimacy.
Epifaniy issues address to those “who depend on Russian Patriarchate position”
The head of the OCU said that over seven years his organization has not received “even a formal reply” to its proposals for dialogue.
OCU swaps its “metropolitans” in Vinnytsia and Khmelnytskyi
Shostatskyi will move from Vinnytsia to Khmelnytskyi, while Yurystyi will move from Khmelnytskyi to Vinnytsia.
Authorities put destruction of UOC on hold due to Vance's position – expert
A plan to ban the Ukrainian Orthodox Church and force unification with the Orthodox Church of Ukraine has been completely halted after the American side intervened in the process.
OCU to issue address to “believers and bishops dependent on ROC's position”
The OCU has turned its attention to “further steps toward overcoming the church division in Ukraine.”
OCU blogger tries to stage provocation at Chernivtsi Holy Spirit Cathedral
A provocateur calling himself a “religious expert” came to the cathedral in Chernivtsi and recorded a video while insulting UOC clergy and faithful.