Restraint for the subdeacon who “beat up a military” extended by court

Ihor Slobodian (left) and his lawyer in court. Photo: vsim.ua

On October 2, 2023, the Khmelnytsky City District Court extended until November 30 a preventive measure – personal commitment – for UOC subdeacon Ihor Slobodian, who is accused of “beating” a provocateur in the Intercession Cathedral. This was reported by vsim.ua.

The “victim” Artur Ananyev did not appear at the court hearing; his lawyer came instead. According to the latter, Ananyev is now actually serving in the Armed Forces of Ukraine, which the lawyer learned about only on the eve of the trial.

The witnesses, who were supposed to be heard in court, did not show up either. The judge decided to postpone the hearing to November 2.

As the UOJ reported, on April 2, 2023, Artur Ananyev, dressed in military uniform, staged a provocation in the Khmelniysky Intercession Cathedral, which led to the seizure of the shrine by supporters of the OCU.

Many media reported the incident in the cathedral as a “beating of a military man,” but it turned out that at that time Ananyev had nothing to do with the Armed Forces of Ukraine.

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.