UGCC urges some members not to come to divine services

UGCC leader Sviatoslav Shevchuk. Photo: Facts ICTV

The leader of the Ukrainian Greek Catholic Church, Sviatoslav Shevchuk, urged elderly people and parents with small children to stay home and not come to the divine services, reports the UGCC information resource.

"We are obliged to follow all the rules that follow from certain orders of public authorities. In addition, we urge elderly people and parents with young children to stay home, because they are in the zone of greatest risk," said Shevchuk.

According to him, believers should follow the home prayer rule and watch video broadcasts of the divine services.

The head of the Greek Catholics believes that it is possible not to touch or kiss icons in temples.

Also, in connection with this situation clerics of the UGCC should respond to the requests of the faithful and perform confession and communion in their home.

"We demand our churches should strengthen anti-epidemic security measures so that our churches are always clean and safe places for personal and common prayer," said Sviatoslav Shevchuk.

As reported, mass public events, including divine services, have been banned in Kyiv.

Read also

TRC comments on situation with detention of Metropolitan Longin’s children

The agency reported that after the necessary documents were provided, the man was given the opportunity to formalize a deferral.

Media: Metropolitan Longin’s children released from the TRC

The release was made possible only thanks to the courageous and steadfast position of the metropolitan and the reaction of the entire Orthodox community.

DESS says how many UOC churches have "transferred" to OCU since war started

As of early 2024, there were 10,919 UOC religious organizations in Ukraine, 10,586 of which are religious communities.

Metropolitan Longin to Zelensky: Release my son from TRC

Metropolitan Longin (Zhar) of Bancheny addressed an appeal to the President of Ukraine, Volodymyr Zelensky.

Prayers further offered for imprisoned UOJ journalists at Lavra's standing

People pray to the Lord to protect the "prisoners of conscience" from all sorrow, trouble, need, and illness.

Metropolitan Theodosiy's house arrest extended

The bishop participated in the hearing via videoconference, but opponents of the UOC were active near the courthouse.