Over 1,000 believers gather outside the court to support Metropolitan Longin

Orthodox Bukovynians came to the court to support Metropolitan Longin. Photo: Artem Dmytruk

More than a thousand Orthodox Christians gathered outside the Hertsa District Court in Bukovyna, where today, October 31, at 10:00 a.m., the case of Metropolitan Longin of Bancheny was set to be heard. Photos and videos from the scene were shared by MP Artem Dmytruk on his Telegram channel.

"Stop persecuting our father!" read the signs held by the children whom the bishop has adopted and cared for throughout his life.

They also asked, "Why are you judging our father? Leave him alone. He is our only hope and support."

"Yesterday's situation in court was a direct violation of human rights," read another sign.

As reported by the UOJ, on October 30, during a court session, the bishop became unwell and was hospitalized. Despite this, a new session was scheduled for the very next day. The Bancheny Monastery has called for prayers in support of the archbishop.

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