Police: We cannot hold Pochaiv pilgrims liable
Pochaiv cross procession. Photo: First Cossack Telegram channel
Police in the Khmelnytskyi region have acknowledged that they are unable to bring administrative charges against participants in the UOC’s thousands-strong cross procession to Pochaiv Lavra. This was reported by ZAXID.NET.
Liudmyla Cherevchenko, a representative of the Khmelnytskyi Regional Military Administration, confirmed that the procession violates a ban imposed by the regional defense council on mass gatherings. However, she acknowledged that the authorities are unable to punish the faithful.
“Current law allows religious events inside places of worship, funerals and volunteer activities,” Cherevchenko said. “But here, people simply got up on their own and started walking. If there is an organizer, there can be administrative liability. But we cannot identify any organizers.”
Inna Hleha, spokesperson for the Khmelnytskyi regional police department, confirmed the official’s remarks. According to her, law enforcement officers are accompanying the procession solely to prevent road accidents and maintain public order.
“We cannot find the organizers,” Hleha said. “When questioned, these pilgrims say: ‘We are walking on our own, and others are joining us.’ Of course, police officers in every community follow the procession to prevent accidents and maintain public order. So far, no violations have been recorded.”
As the UOJ reported, believers from Bukovyna have expressed support for the Pochaiv pilgrims.
Read also
SBU told Phanar many UOC bishops would join OCU in 2018, report says
According to a Phanar representative’s account, Ukrainian security services told the Constantinople delegation that many UOC representatives were prepared to attend the OCU’s “Unification Council.” In the end, only two did.
Catholic cardinal visits Ukrainian POWs during trip to Russia
During three days of consultations in Moscow, Cardinal Matteo Zuppi discussed prospects for ending the war in Ukraine.
Ukrainians help restore Serbian Orthodox church in Paris
Orthodox Ukrainians have become regular parishioners of St. Sava Church in Paris and have taken part in its restoration.
Bulgarian Church clergy and laity oppose Phanar head’s visit
More than 2,000 clergy and laity have called for the Ecumenical Patriarch’s visit to be canceled, citing disagreement with his actions and concerns that the visit could legitimize schism.
Unknown intruders break down doors at two UOC churches in Sloviansk
Archbishop Paisiy said OCU activists are suspected of breaking into the churches in Sloviansk, and police have launched an investigation.
Sviatohirsk Lavra prays for murdered monk on 40th day after death
The brethren of the Sviatohirsk Lavra held a memorial service for murdered Monk Varsonofiy, calling on the faithful to pray for the newly departed monk.