Russian Orthodox Church Synod retires Metropolitan Hilarion of Donetsk

Metropolitan Hilarion of Donetsk. Photo: svlavra.church.ua

The Synod of the Russian Orthodox Church has retired Metropolitan Hilarion of Donetsk and Mariupol. This decision was made on October 24, 2024, in Moscow, according to the official website patriarchia.ru.

The decision (Journal No. 107) was based on "the health condition of His Eminence Metropolitan Hilarion of Donetsk and Mariupol, which significantly hinders his ability to manage the diocese, especially in a region affected by ongoing military conflict."

Metropolitan Hilarion has been assigned to reside in the Simferopol Diocese during his retirement, while receiving financial support from the Donetsk Diocesan Administration.

"Metropolitan Vladimir of Vladivostok and Primorye has been appointed the new Metropolitan of Donetsk and Mariupol," the statement reads.

As previously reported, Metropolitan Hilarion once said, "We believe God will hear His Beatitude's prayer for our land."

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