UOC Synod urges Verkhovna Rada MPs not to pass Bill 8371
Verkhovna Rada of Ukraine. Photo: armyinform.com.ua
On April 10, 2024, the Holy Synod of the Ukrainian Orthodox Church expressed its position on the draft law No. 8371, the Information and Education Department of the UOC reported.
The Synodals noted that the bill No. 8371 "On Amending Certain Laws of Ukraine on the Activities of Religious Organizations in Ukraine", initiated by the Cabinet of Ministers of Ukraine, is of particular concern to the faithful.
"Under the pretext of protecting national security, its provisions are aimed not only at closing down the Ukrainian Orthodox Church but also at violating the fundamental right to freedom of religion, guaranteed by the state for its every citizen.," the document reads.
According to the bishops' conviction, the bill is aimed at interference in the internal activities of religious organizations of the UOC.
In this regard, the Holy Synod urged the MPs of the Verkhovna Rada of Ukraine not to pass this bill.
As reported by the UOJ, the Holy Synod previously stated the violation of the rights of UOC believers.
Read also
OCU chaplain: A soldier should not feel guilty for killing enemies
According to a cleric of the OCU, the word “killing” should not even be used in this context.
AFU servicewoman punished by “being sent to the frontline” for defending UOC
An OCU representative explained how commanders punish UOC believers who defend their Church.
UOC church seized after OCU's and UGCC's provocation at soldier's funeral
Supporters of the UGCC brought the body of a soldier into the church, pressuring a UOC priest to conduct the funeral according to the Greek Catholic rite in an Orthodox church.
UOC hierarch calls on the faithful to pray for the return of seized shrine
Metropolitan Theodosiy urged the faithful to communal and personal prayer to Archangel Michael.
Russian Orthodox Church Primate: Christ did not condemn death penalty
The Patriarch added that, although the Church does not welcome the death penalty, it has never condemned it if this punishment is carried out in accordance with the law.
Metropolitan Jonathan appeals sentence to Supreme Court
The Supreme Court has requested criminal case files from the Vinnytsia City Court for cassation review.