Over 1,000 believers gather outside the court to support Metropolitan Longin

Orthodox Bukovynians came to the court to support Metropolitan Longin. Photo: Artem Dmytruk

More than a thousand Orthodox Christians gathered outside the Hertsa District Court in Bukovyna, where today, October 31, at 10:00 a.m., the case of Metropolitan Longin of Bancheny was set to be heard. Photos and videos from the scene were shared by MP Artem Dmytruk on his Telegram channel.

"Stop persecuting our father!" read the signs held by the children whom the bishop has adopted and cared for throughout his life.

They also asked, "Why are you judging our father? Leave him alone. He is our only hope and support."

"Yesterday's situation in court was a direct violation of human rights," read another sign.

As reported by the UOJ, on October 30, during a court session, the bishop became unwell and was hospitalized. Despite this, a new session was scheduled for the very next day. The Bancheny Monastery has called for prayers in support of the archbishop.

Read also

OCA Synod Releases Proclamation on 100th Anniversary of Repose of St. Tikhon of Moscow

Alexandria, VA - The Holy Synod of the Orthodox Church in America (OCA) released a Proclamation concerning the 100th Anniversary of the Repose of the Hiero-Confessor Tikhon, Patriarch of Moscow

Montanika Conference 2025: Last Change for Early Bird Tickets

Patristic Faith's "MontaNIKA" returns with the blessing of His Grace, Maxim of the Western American Diocese (Serbian Orthodox Church)

Trump Brokers De-Escalation in Black Sea

Washington DC—Following negotiations in Saudi Arabia, White House says that both Russia and Ukraine have agreed to measures aimed at reducing military tensions in the Black Sea.

Abp. Elpidophoros: Trump reminds me of Constantine the Great

Washington DC—The Greek Archbishop showered President Trump with praise, gifting him a blessing cross.

Pope Francis Leaves Hospital with Vatican on Life Support

Vatican—Pope Francis made his first public appearance yesterday after weeks in the hospital.

His Grace Alexei of Sitka and All Alaska Elavated to the Dignity of Archbishop

Springfield, VA—The Holy Synod of the Orthodox Church in America (OCA) released its decision at its meeting on March 19, 2025