Volyn Eparchy hosts conference on distinction between faith and psychology
A spiritual and educational conference held in the Volyn Eparchy. Photo: UOC Information Center
On June 7, 2026, in the village of Strumivka at the St. Andrew's parish of the UOC, specialists and clergy discussed the boundaries between psychology and the spiritual life of a Christian. Meeting participants focused on practical questions: how to recognize quality psychological help and protect parishes from the infiltration of occultism disguised as "scientific" methods, reports the UOC Information Center.
Crisis psychologist Lena Storm revealed methods for recognizing mental problems that are often confused with spiritual decline. She paid special attention to the topic of helping people with suicidal thoughts and explained the difference between ordinary stress and deep psychological trauma. The expert also warned believers against fascination with esotericism, which modern manipulators often disguise as psychological training.
Practical advice for believers in the digital information environment was presented by Matushka Maryna Daukoulis. She discussed how Orthodox bloggers can develop a content strategy and respond to hate without compromising their personal boundaries.
The parish rector, Archpriest Stepan Yarema, raised the question of Christian sobriety. He explained how modern technologies and gadgets form new types of dependencies and why it is important to be able to experience difficult emotions without running away from reality. The priest separately addressed the topic of supporting warriors who return from the front and need timely professional aid.
The conference was concluded by the Vice-Rector of the Volyn Theological Seminary, Archimandrite Theophan (Kyryliuk). He emphasized that a healthy spiritual worldview helps a person avoid fatal mistakes. According to the clergyman, a Christian should not make life-changing decisions while under the influence of unresolved psychological trauma.
As the UOJ reported, a youth forum on social service was held in the Volyn Eparchy of the UOC.
Read also
Priest at Lavra: Respond to all trials with prayer, not enmity
During a prayer vigil near the Kyiv-Pechersk Lavra, a priest reminded the faithful of the power of faith, mercy, and prayer in a time of trials for the Church.
Apartments for sale built on land allocated to OCU and UGCC, media report
Journalists report that apartment complexes were built on plots allocated to the OCU's and UGCC's structures in Ternopil for religious purposes.
10,000 signatures against seizure of UOC church submitted to Odesa RMA
The Odesa Eparchy collected 10,000 signatures in support of parishioners of the seized church in honor of St. Alexander Nevsky.
Police open fraud case against Mage Veliar, MP says
Law enforcement authorities have launched an investigation into the activities of Oryshchenko, who staged blasphemous actions outside the walls of the Kyiv-Pechersk Lavra.
RCC cleric in U.S. celebrates LGBT Mass opposite gay bar
An RCC cleric celebrated Mass near a gay bar and said the Catholic faith had been built for centuries on the experience of “marginalized LGBT Catholics.”
Hierarchs of eight Local Churches concelebrate Divine Liturgy in Greece
Hierarchs from eight Local Orthodox Churches concluded the Pavleia 2026 forum with a solemn Divine Liturgy, calling the Orthodox world to unity around the apostolic tradition.