The rector of a UOC parish in Khmelna transferred to the OCU after being detained by the TCC, — media
Archimandrite Epiphanius (Rudenko) agreed to transfer to the OCU in exchange for release from the TCC.
The rector of the Pokrovsky church of the UOC in the village of Khmelna, Cherkasy region, Archimandrite Epiphanius (Rudenko), has joined the OCU. As reported by the Telegram channel "Pershyi Kozatskyi", the clergyman made this decision after being detained by TCC officers.
The Cherkasy eparchy of the OCU characterized this event as a unanimous and voluntary choice of the community. At the same time, the rector's change of jurisdiction occurred as a result of significant pressure exerted on him during his time in TCC custody.
The archimandrite was compelled to agree to transfer to the structure of Epiphanius Dumenko in order to be released. This incident is described as a great tragedy, with emphasis placed on the involuntary nature of the decision made.
As the UOJ reported, Greek media pointed to cases of forced mobilization of UOC priests.
