Lavra denies reports of a monk joining the OCU

In 2015, Igumen Nikodim (Pryshchepa) was banned from priesthood. Photo: lavra.ua

The press service of the Kyiv-Pechersk Lavra issued a statement regarding reports about the acceptance of a former cleric of the monastery into the OCU.

"Recently, a message has circulated on social media about the acceptance of Igumen Nikodim (Pryshchepa) into one of the dioceses of the OCU. It was emphasized that this individual was a member of the Kyiv-Pechersk Lavra's brethren," the statement said. "We would like to remind everyone that in recent years, none of the current monks of the Lavra has joined the OCU structures, except for Avraamy (Lotysh), who left the Ukrainian Orthodox Church in 2023."

According to the Lavra, the cleric mentioned in recent news reports had long been excluded from the Lavra's monastics after "expressing the intention to transfer independently to one of the dioceses of the Russian Orthodox Church."

"As per the decision of the UOC Holy Synod, in 2015, an order was issued banning Igumen Nikodim (Pryshchepa) from priesthood," the monastery confirmed.

As the UOJ reported, an important hearing regarding the Lower Lavra is slated for September 26.

Read also

Ukraine plans to introduce a system of total surveillance over citizens

The Center for Joint Action believes that this system will allow law enforcement agencies to monitor any person anywhere, which is especially dangerous for critics of the government, opposition, and journalists.

Kyiv-Pechersk Lavra Reserve decides to study and "protect" Lavra caves

Scientists announced they are seeking optimal conditions to protect this "historical cemetery."

A church built by persecuted UOC community burned down in Volyn

The burned church was built by the community to replace the one seized by the OCU supporters.

Poturaev: There are those in UOC who call for confrontation with the state

The head of the relevant committee of the Verkhovna Rada says that the UOC is ready to create provocations near churches for television footage.

Military medics thank UOC for evacuation vehicle

According to the medics, the vehicle will serve to save the lives of soldiers.

Religious scholar slams Bulgarian Church's decision to award head of Fanar

Vasiliana Merheb believes that this decision should be reconsidered.