Dumenko calls reopening of Near Caves a step toward victory over Russia

Serhiy Dumenko in the Near Caves. Photo: TSN

OCU leader Serhiy Dumenko has commented on the Ministry of Culture’s reopening of the Near Caves of the Kyiv-Pechersk Lavra, calling it a meaningful victory on the road to Ukraine’s broader victory over Russia.

“Such small victories add up to our great Ukrainian victory, because it consists of little victories that are forged not only on the frontline, but also in the rear. That’s why every small step makes us stronger,” he told TSN journalists.

At a “moleben” service in the Exaltation of the Cross Church, Dumenko also addressed those present with the slogan “Glory to Ukraine,” stressing in particular that, as he claimed, it was being voiced in the Kyiv-Pechersk Lavra for the first time.

As a reminder, the state closed the Lower Lavra and the caves to worshippers on August 10, 2023. The reasons for the closure have never been officially explained.

Earlier, the UOJ reported that the Ministry of Culture had reopened the Lavra’s Near Caves.

Read also

His Beatitude tonsures four Kyiv-Pechersk Lavra brethren

The Primate of the UOC performed monastic tonsure and gave names to the new monks in honor of the Venerable Fathers of the Caves.

Number of Buddhists worldwide falls by 19 million over 10 years

East Asia has seen the sharpest decline in the number of Buddhists amid an aging population and large-scale disaffiliation in adulthood.

UOC publishes akathist to English king-saint for the first time

The Synodal Commission has published texts in honor of ancient saints of Europe that were approved by the Holy Synod of the Ukrainian Orthodox Church.

Georgian Patriarch placed in medically induced coma and put on ventilation

Patriarch Ilia II has been placed in a medically induced coma, as doctors continue intensive treatment and hold consultations on his condition.

Court upholds eviction of UOC community from Kniazhychi monastery

Ukraine’s highest court has effectively legalized the local authorities’ decision to hand the Transfiguration Monastery over for use by the OCU.

Patriarch Bartholomew attends Islamic iftar dinner at Istanbul Greek lyceum

The Ecumenical Patriarch took part in a Muslim evening meal alongside Turkish officials inside a Greek educational institution.