DESS appeals to UOC over the "Russian" song performed in the Lavra

Kyiv-Pechersk Lavra. Photo: kiyev.ua.org

The State Service for Ethnopolitics and Freedom of Conscience of Ukraine made a statement in light of the video from the Kyiv-Pechersk Lavra, in which a song about the Russian Federation was performed. The document was published on the official website of the department.

The message says that every bishop of the UOC must make sure that the parishes of the eparchy entrusted to him do not commemorate Patriarch Kirill, do not distribute pro-Kremlin literature and do not reproduce the narratives of the “Russian world”.

The department also urged to check the content of sermons and chants and make sure that it does not hurt people's feelings in the context of Russia's invasive war against Ukraine and the ongoing aggression since 2014.

“No one will do this for you, and this is an important exam with far-reaching consequences,” the Service warned.

Earlier, the UOJ reported that the SBU opened a criminal case on the fact of a video with songs about the Russian Federation from the Kyiv-Pechersk Lavra.

Read also

In Ukraine, Trump’s 'spiritual advisor' reassured of religious freedom

Pastor Mark Burns stated that Ukraine, despite the war, is a "beacon of religious freedom."

Lavra brethren congratulate Metropolitan Pavel on 31 years as abbot

The monks of the Kyiv-Pechersk Lavra have expressed hope that they will soon be able to pray again with their abbot.

Amsterdam: Intrusion into Lavra Caves – a return to Soviet-era persecution

International lawyer Robert Amsterdam has condemned the actions of Ukraine’s Ministry of Culture regarding the inspection of holy relics in the Caves of the Kyiv-Pechersk Lavra, calling it a violation of religious freedom.

Over 20 EU states condemn Hungary for ban on LGBT propaganda among children

“This restricts the right to peaceful assembly and freedom of expression,” diplomats state in a joint declaration.

His Beatitude officiates consecration of Bishop of Rakhiv

At the Church of St. Agapitus in the Lavra, the Primate of the UOC ordained a vicar for the Khust Eparchy.

Met Victor: It is painful to see Lavra's relics turned into test subjects

According to the bishop, there is particular concern over how members of the scientific commission will handle the holy relics.