Phanar head officiates service in Stavropegia with almost no parishioners

The head of Phanar, surrounded by representatives of the OCU and state security officers, climbs up the steps to the St. Andrew's church. Photo: facebook.com/oleksandr.drabinko

On August 21, 2021, Patriarch Bartholomew of Constantinople officiated the vespers in St. Andrew's church in Kyiv, practically “free” of parishioners.

A video of the vespers of the head of Phanar was published on the Facebook page “Stavropegia of the Ecumenical Patriarchate in Ukraine”.

In addition to Patriarch Bartholomew, the church was attended by “hierarchs” of the OCU, state security officers, journalists and guests. There were practically no ordinary believers of the newly created religious structure in the temple.

One of the Facebook users wrote under the video with the divine service of the head of Phanar: “But there are so many believers there. A dime a thousand. More a dime than a thousand."

Earlier, the UOJ wrote that after his meeting with the VR Chairperson, the head of Phanar was taken out of the Verkhovna Rada through the courtyard.

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.