UOC metropolitan: I will defend the truth in court – the Church of Christ

Metropolitan Vissarion of Ovruch appealed to the faithful and clergy of the UOC because of the transfer to the court of his case on "inciting ethnic and religious hatred." In an appeal published on the website of the diocese, the bishop said that at the trial he would have the opportunity to defend the truth – the Church of Christ.

He noted that he had taken an oath in which he pledged to spread the teachings of Christ while safeguarding the faithful from heresies and schisms. According to him, those who have departed from the legitimate Church of Christ and independently created their religious organizations are the ones who have caused schisms.

Metropolitan Vissarion also explained that missionary work is his duty, which is permitted by the Constitution of Ukraine.

"For over 30 years, I have been a clergyman in the Church of Christ (UOC), received gratitude from the clergy and many believers... I am glad that I am defended by the canons of the Holy Orthodox Church, the holy fathers, Patriarch Theophilos of Jerusalem... I request prayers and blessings from the saints of our Holy Church," he added.

As reported by the UOJ, law enforcement authorities brought cases against Metropolitan Vissarion and two UOC priests to court.