In Bila Tserkva, representatives of OCU seize two more UOC churches

The UOC temple in Bila Tserkva in honor of Blessed Xenia of St. Petersburg. Photo: Dozor

On March 28, 2025, representatives of the OCU seized two more churches in the city of Bila Tserkva, Kyiv region: the churches in honor of the Nativity of Christ and Blessed Xenia of Petersburg. This was reported by the administration of the Bila Tserkva Eparchy.

The diocesan press service reported that the seizure occurred according to the usual, rehearsed scenario.

After the curfew ended, OCU clergy, in the presence of police and young men of athletic build, damaged the locks of the church and entered the temple.

“We ask for prayers for the rectors of these churches, Archpriest Mykhailo Pop and Archpriest Borys Matokhniuk, along with their parishioners,” the message states.

As reported by the UOJ, on March 21, in Bila Tserkva, the OCU seized the Panteleimon Church of the UOC.

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.