Yelensky on UOC bishops: We do not grant deferments to such people
Viktor Yelensky. Photo: Ukrinform
The DESS head Viktor Yelensky stated at the Ukrinform press conference that his agency had received requests for deferment from UOC clergy but rejected them.“We do not grant deferment to such people,” Yelensky said, referring to one hierarch who received a deferment as an employee in a non-church field.
At the same time, he acknowledged that "a clergyman cannot take up arms, if he commits even unintentional killing, he must be defrocked from the priesthood."
The official also reported that Ukraine had received remarks from foreign religious centers, particularly from the US episcopal conference, that mobilizing priests is unacceptable. Nevertheless, this had no impact on the actions of Ukrainian authorities.
Earlier, the UOJ reported that Congresswoman Luna declared the mobilization of UOC priests illegal.
Read also
St. Nicholas Church parish of Dnipro delivers aid to Kherson region residents
Believers of the Dnipropetrovsk Eparchy carried out a humanitarian mission to the Kherson region.
Celebrations honoring miraculous icon of Theotokos begin at Pochaiv Lavra
The festive All-Night Vigil at the Pochaiv Lavra began with an akathist before the miraculous Pochaiv Icon of the Most Holy Theotokos.
Metropolitan Nathanael consecrates iconostasis in Nosachevychi
The ruling bishop of the Volyn Eparchy led the Divine Liturgy at the St. Equal-to-the-Apostles Mary Magdalene Church, where he consecrated the iconostasis.
Police officers in England invited to observe Ramadan fast in solidarity
British police officers of all faiths have been encouraged to observe the Ramadan fast alongside their Muslim colleagues to better understand the significance of Islam's holiest month.
Canadian military advises chaplains to avoid prayers and references to God
Canada's Armed Forces have introduced new guidance encouraging military chaplains to replace traditional prayers with neutral "spiritual reflections" at official ceremonies to accommodate service members of all beliefs, including atheists.
Faithful at Lavra urged to remain loyal to Christ despite trials
During a prayer vigil, a priest recalled the Gospel examples of the Apostle Peter and St. Mary Magdalene, Equal-to-the-Apostles, speaking about the power of faith.