Yelensky: Church seizure is a matter for the local, not central, government
Head of the DESS Viktor Yelensky. Photo: korrespondent.net
The American Conservative published an article titled "Ukraine's Two Wars", authored by independent journalist Flavius Mihăies, about the persecution of the Ukrainian Orthodox Church (UOC) by the Ukrainian authorities. During his investigation, the journalist spoke with Viktor Yelensky, Head of the State Service of Ukraine for Ethnic Affairs and Freedom of Conscience (DESS).
Flavius Mihăies expressed his concern to Viktor Yelensky over church properties being forcibly transferred from the UOC to the OCU.
"This is a matter for the local government," Yelensky explained to me in his office in Kyiv. "The central government was not involved," the journalist quotes the official in the article.
As previously reported by the UOJ, the American media published an article on the persecution of the UOC by the authorities.
Read also
Interview with His Eminence Metropolitan Nicholas, First Hierarch of ROCOR
The Southern Clergy Retreat and the Growth of Orthodoxy in the South
Christian Orthodox Coalition Calls for Action Amid Syrian Crisis
March 19, 2025 – The Christian Orthodox Coalition in the United States has issued a powerful statement condemning the ongoing persecution of Orthodox Christians in war-torn Syria.
EP Hopes US Visit Will Boost Abp. Elpidophoros' Declining Influence
The National Herald reports that Patriarch Bartholomew will travel to America to seek new connections with Washington and support Archbishop Elpidophoros.
Metropolitan Joan of Korca elected as Primate of the Albanian Orthodox Church
Albanian Orthodox Church Elevates Met. Joan (Pelushi) to Primate After Archbishop Anastasi’s Repose
The 17th Anniversary of the Repose of Met. Laurus (Shkurla), First Hierarch of the ROCOR
Parishes of the Eastern American Diocese (ROCOR) lifted up their prayers in remembrance of the much-loved Vladyka Laurus on the anniversary of his repose.
"The entire family has been massacred in Baniyas, Syria. They were Orthodox Christians. Humanity has failed!"
Social media is telling the stories Corporate Media will not, and people are taking notice.