German theologian condemns killing of Sviatohirsk Lavra monk

Theologian Heinrich Derksen condemned the attack on the Sviatohirsk Lavra. Photo: UOJ

German Protestant theologian Dr. Heinrich Derksen has strongly condemned the killing of Monk Varsonofiy at the Sviatohirsk Lavra. The prominent theologian, rector of the Bonn Bible Seminary, professor of church history and senior pastor of the Evangelical Church in Cologne, commented on the attack on the monastery to the UOJ editorial office in Germany.

Heinrich Derksen said he was deeply shocked by the brutal attack on the monastery. The theologian stressed that religious violence is unacceptable in the modern world.

“I was deeply shocked to learn of the violent death of Monk Varsonofiy and the serious wounding of others at the Sviatohirsk Lavra. Any form of violence against people because of their faith must be firmly rejected.”

According to the German theologian, state institutions must ensure the safety of believers even during periods of armed conflict.

“The authorities must guarantee freedom of religion, as well as the protection of Christian communities and their religious institutions in times of war and social tension,” Derksen said. “Experts must independently and fully investigate the circumstances of this crime, and the courts must bring those responsible to justice.”

Derksen also stressed that every believer should offer practical help to those who have suffered.

“As Christians, we must help the victims and their loved ones, pray for the wounded, and oppose every form of hatred, incitement and religious discrimination,” the German pastor concluded.

As previously reported by the UOJ, a German monastery expressed support for the brotherhood of the Sviatohirsk Lavra.

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