UOC: State must ensure the right of Ukrainians to pray at our shrines

The UOC has repeatedly emphasized that the main aim of the festivity dedicated to the Baptism of Rus – is the unification of our nation and liturgic prayer for peace in Ukraine, said the UOC Chancellor, Metropolitan of Borispol and Brovary Anthony in his interview with RIA Novosti Ukraina.

Celebrating the day of the Baptism of Rus, we again return to our origins, seek answers to the burning issues of our time, and ask God to be generous in renewing the grace of the Dnieper Baptism in our people.

Today this holiday for us is a way to testify about the Truth of God, preserve the Orthodox identity of our people, cherish the memory of our roots, without which, as is known, any tree begins to rot from within. If we lose the historical truth, we will lose ourselves.

Recently, the Ukrainian Orthodox Church has faced unprecedented pressure from various structures that do not hide their hostile attitude towards the clergy and laity of our Church. However, we hope that this year will pass without provocations, and the municipal authorities will be able to ensure that all planned solemn events be held. The state, in turn, must ensure the constitutional right of Ukrainians to pray together at our holy places," said Vladyka.

July 27-28 in Kiev, there are celebrations dedicated to the memory of the Holy Great Prince Vladimir Equal-to-the-Apostles and the anniversary of Rus Baptism. Festive events in Kiev were preceded by religious processions with ancient and newly appeared shrines of the Ukrainian Orthodox Church. Throughout July, the procession took place in the cathedral cities of all the UOC eparchies and will end with the general religious procession in Kiev (from St. Vladimir Hill to the Holy Dormition Kiev-Pechersk Lavra).