UOC Chancellor comments on Metropolitan Pavel’s arrest

Metropolitan Anthony, UOC Chancellor. Photo: a video screenshot of Metropolitan Anthony's YouTube channel

Metropolitan Anthony of Boryspil and Brovary, the UOC Chancellor, commented on the detention of Metropolitan Pavel, the abbot of the Kyiv-Pechersk Lavra, on his YouTube channel.

The bishop noted that all the charges brought against Metropolitan Pavel are directed not only against him but also against the entire UOC.

He expressed regret that instead of child traffickers, who are released, today a bishop is imprisoned in the country. According to him, this explains all the hatred towards the Church.

"To remain silent after what has happened would not just mean showing fear, it would mean joining the ranks of those who unjustly persecute you. <...> But Christ, who Himself endured the bonds and sufferings of false denunciation, strengthens us by His example, and we are ready to proclaim after Him: 'Lord, forgive them, they know not what they do.' We pray for you, dear Vladyka, we pray with you, we pray and wish you patience and steadfastness in Christ. The whole Orthodox Church prays," he added.

As reported, in Greece the arrest of Metropolitan Pavel was called "torture by the authorities".

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