Russian Church defrocks the priest who recorded video with Wagner Group
Photo: Vitaly Beliaev. Source: Kazan Reporter
Priest Vitaly Beliaev has been defrocked by the Russian Orthodox Church, according to the Orthodoxy in Tatarstan website.
Patriarch Kirill of the ROC confirmed the defrocking of Beliaev. The church court's decision stated that Beliaev was removed from his clerical duties due to violations of canons 17, 25, and 27 of the Holy Apostles and canon 9 of the Second Council of Constantinople.
Beliaev came under the scrutiny of the Kazan Eparchy's church court in February 2024 after he recorded a video in Kharkiv Oblast against the backdrop of Wagner Group flags. In the video, the priest accused church authorities of trying to prevent him from "supporting the Russian military".
As previously reported by the UOJ, another priest was defrocked by the ROC for refusing to recite a prayer for victory.
Read also
Abp. Elpidophoros Approves "Food-sensitive" Eucharist
When Accessibility Crosses the Line: A Call for Faithful Integrity in Liturgical Practice
Kenyan Orthodox Priest Targeted, Guard Severely Wounded in Machete Attack
"We must not repay violence with violence." —Fr. Antipas
Procession of the Icon of the Theotokos at the Holy Monastery of Iveron on Mount Atho
Monks and pilgrims accompanied the Iveron Icon in a solemn procession around the Monastery and along the shore on Bright Tuesday.
The Mystery of Christian Love - Eulogy for the Funeral of Schema-Archimandrite Panteleimon
In his eulogy, Igumen Gabriel, Abbot-elect of Holy Cross, spoke of Fr. Panteleimon’s legacy and spiritual testament.
Trump and Zelensky Meet Before Pope Francis' Funeral in the Vatican
The meeting lasted about 15 minutes and focused on achieving peace in Ukraine.
In Wales, Muslim Teenagers Set Fire to Christian Church
The two teenagers, recent arrivals from Pakistan, were arrested on suspicion of arson.