UOC-KP Expressed Support for Odessa Metropolitan Agafangel
A representative of the Kyiv Patriarchate thanked the head of the Odessa diocese for his steadfastness and called for not sowing discord in inter-church relations.
"Bishop" of the UOC-KP Nikon expressed support for the head of the Odessa diocese of the UOC, Metropolitan Agafangel. Nikon Grablyuk published an address to the clergy, monastics, and laity, in which he called for unity and mutual respect during 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 great honor, but also a great responsibility before God and people," the author noted.
The "hierarch" of the UOC-KP drew attention to the fact that during the most difficult moments for the region, Bishop Agafangel remained with his flock. "In the difficult days for Odessa and Ukraine, the bishop together with the clergy offered prayers for peace, for the people, and for our city," Grablyuk emphasized. "For many of the faithful, this became a source of spiritual support and hope." He also recalled the words of the Apostle Paul that all the deeds of Christians must be done in love.
The text of the address contains a call to abandon hostile rhetoric in inter-church relations. "Criticism can take many forms, but it must never cross the line of respect, dignity, and Christian love," declared the representative of the Kyiv Patriarchate. "We are called not to multiply enmity, but to increase peace, prayer, and mutual support." In his conviction, every believer must strive to be not a "sower of discord," but a peacemaker.
Nikon Grablyuk expressed hope for the future reconciliation of all Orthodox Christians in the country. "I believe that the day will come when all Orthodox Christians of Ukraine will be able to live in the love of Christ, in mutual respect and brotherhood, without multiplying enmity and misunderstandings," the author concluded.
In closing, he wished Metropolitan Agafangel strength, longevity, and God's help in his continued archpastoral labors.
As the UCJ reported, the UOC-KP condemned the forcible seizure of the Alexander Nevsky church of the UOC in Odessa.
