UOC-KP bishop voices support for Metropolitan Agafangel of Odesa

Metropolitan Agafangel. Photo: UOC Information and Education Department

UOC-KP “bishop” Nikon has expressed support for the head of the UOC Odesa eparchy, Metropolitan Agafangel. Nikon Hrabliuk published an address to clergy, monastics, and laity, calling for unity and mutual respect at a difficult time for the country.

According to him, the dignity of church ministry is determined not by momentary emotions but by concrete fruits and faithfulness to the Church.

“Archpastoral ministry is not only a high honor but also a great responsibility before God and people,” the author noted.

The UOC-KP “hierarch” stressed that in the most difficult moments for the region, Metropolitan Agafangel remained with his flock.

“In the difficult days for Odesa and Ukraine, Vladyka, together with the clergy, offered prayers for peace, for the people, and for our city,” Hrabliuk emphasized. “For many faithful, this became a source of spiritual support and hope.”

He also recalled the words of the Apostle Paul that all Christian deeds must be done with love.

The address calls for an end to hostile rhetoric in interchurch relations.

“Criticism may take different forms, but it must never cross the line of respect, dignity, and Christian love,” the representative of the Kyiv Patriarchate said. “We are called not to multiply hostility, but to increase peace, prayer, and mutual support.”

In his view, every believer should strive to be not a “sower of discord” but a peacemaker.

Nikon Hrabliuk expressed hope for the future reconciliation of all Orthodox Christians in the country.

“I believe the day will come when all Orthodox Christians of Ukraine will be able to live in the love of Christ, mutual respect, and brotherhood, without multiplying hostility and misunderstandings,” the author concluded.

In closing, he wished Metropolitan Agafangel strength, long life, and God’s help in his further archpastoral labors.

As the UOJ reported, the UOC-KP condemned the forceful seizure of the UOC’s Alexander Nevsky Church in Odesa.

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