MinCult explains why St. Nicholas Church in Kyiv is not transferred to RCC
Officials cited legal issues and martial law.
The Ministry of Culture and Strategic Communications of Ukraine (MCSC) explained the reasons for the delay in transferring St. Nicholas Church in Kyiv to the Roman Catholic Church community. As stated in the ministry's response to a request from Telegraf, the observance of several legal norms and requirements makes the transfer process impossible in a short timeframe.
From 2021 to 2023, no funds were allocated from the state budget for major repairs. In 2024, 1.4 million UAH is allocated for project work related to the development of scientific and project documentation for urgent conservation work. According to an assessment conducted by the Ukrainian "Vidnovlennya" Institute, the overall condition of the church has been deemed unsuitable for normal use and in need of restoration.
Earlier, the pastor of St. Nicholas Parish, Father Pavlo Vyshkovsky, expressed concern that delays in reconstruction could lead to the destruction of this historic church, which is already "on the verge of collapse." It is worth noting that in 2021, a major fire occurred in the church, causing significant damage to the building and destroying the unique organ hall.
The Roman Catholic community in Kyiv has been striving to regain the church for over 30 years, but as emphasized by the MCSC, the building remains state property and is currently managed by the National House of Organ and Chamber Music of Ukraine. The transfer of the structure to the religious community requires compliance with numerous legal acts governing state property management and the protection of cultural heritage.
In addition to legal obstacles, the situation is also affected by martial law in Ukraine, which hinders the implementation of many projects. The state’s financial resources are primarily directed towards defense and maintaining essential sectors.
As the UOJ previously reported, Prime Minister Shmyhal promised to transfer St. Nicholas Church in Kyiv to the Roman Catholic community by May 1, 2024.
