Dismissed Chancellor of UOC-KP says he is in "prayerful expectation"

Andriy Marutsak. Photo: Facebook

Former Chancellor of the UOC-KP Andriy Marutsak published an official statement on his Facebook page announcing his departure from the religious structure under the leadership of "patriarch" Nikodim. He called his decision a "direct and logical continuation" of his stance defending canonical order in the UOC-KP.

Marutsak once again emphasized that he categorically does not recognize the coup that occurred in the organization and considers any decisions by the new administration invalid. "I once again emphasize that I do not recognize the legitimacy of any documents, decrees, decisions or resolutions that are issued or will be issued by representatives of this conspiratorial group," the statement reads.

The "hierarch" officially announced the cessation of any administrative, canonical and prayerful communion with Nikodim's circle. According to him, this group "completely departed from church canons through the illegal election of a 'patriarch'" and essentially betrayed the spiritual legacy of Filaret Denysenko. "Remaining in such an environment contradicts my Christian and episcopal convictions," Marutsak stated.

In his address, he cited the 31st Apostolic Canon and the 15th Canon of the Quinisext Council, which oblige bishops to distance themselves from those who "conspire against church peace and lawful order." Andriy Marutsak claims that his withdrawal is not a rejection of the ideals of the Kyiv Patriarchate, but "a step to defend truth from those who seized power in it through conspiracy."

At present, the "hierarch" intends to continue his activities outside of subordination to Nikodim. "Today I remain an Orthodox bishop and am in a state of prayerful expectation and search for canonical understanding with those bishops who have not stained themselves by participating in this lawlessness," the author of the statement concluded.

Earlier, the UOJ reported that "patriarch" Nicodim dismissed Matsurak from the position of Chancellor and later suspended him from service.

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