In Volyn Eparchy, new UOC church consecrated instead of seized one by OCU

Archbishop Nathanael consecrated a church in vlg. Zvyniache of the Volyn region. Photo: pravoslavna.volyn.ua

On September 4, Archbishop Nathaniel of Volyn and Lutsk, during the Divine Liturgy, consecrated the St. Nicholas Church in the village of Zvyniach, Volyn region, reports the press service of the Volyn Eparchy.

Archbishop Nathanael was concelebrated by the dean of the district, Archpriest Valery Pilipchuk, the head of the diocese office, Archimandrite Paisiy (Khomich), the rector of the church, Fr. Sergei Bachinsky, eparchy clerics and guests in the priesthood.

At the small entrance, the head of the Volyn Eparchy elevated the rector of the church to the rank of archpriest and gave him a high church award – a mitre.

During the service, the believers prayed for peace in Ukraine and the unity of world Orthodoxy. Prayers were also offered for combating coronavirus infection and the health of medical workers.

After the Divine Liturgy, Archbishop Nathanael addressed all those present with a welcoming speech.

As reported, on March 10, 2019, the St. Nicholas Church in the village of Zvyniache passed into the jurisdiction of the OCU. Over 60 local residents remained faithful to the canonical Church and continue to perform divine services in the old house.

Read also

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.

Dumenko and Zoria discuss combating "Russian World" with Minister of Culture

Tochytskyi and representatives of the OCU discussed countering Russia’s attempts to destroy Ukraine's national identity.

Greek theologian: Religious situation in Ukraine divides Orthodoxy

According to the Greek theologian, "many Ukrainian Orthodox worshippers have been hesitant to leave the church under the Moscow Patriarchate and join the independent Orthodox Church of Ukraine, fearing a potential excommunication for being schismatics."  

OCU cleric blames TRC for forced mobilization and kidnapping of parishioners

It is reported that the mobilized person was helping with repair work in the church.