In Volyn Eparchy, new UOC church consecrated instead of seized one by OCU
After the seizure of the church by the OCU, over 60 Zvyniache residents remained faithful to the Church and continued to perform divine services in a rural house.
On September 4, Archbishop Nathaniel of Volyn and Lutsk, during the Divine Liturgy, consecrated the St. Nicholas Church in the village of Zvyniach, Volyn region, reports the press service of the Volyn Eparchy.
Archbishop Nathanael was concelebrated by the dean of the district, Archpriest Valery Pilipchuk, the head of the diocese office, Archimandrite Paisiy (Khomich), the rector of the church, Fr. Sergei Bachinsky, eparchy clerics and guests in the priesthood.
At the small entrance, the head of the Volyn Eparchy elevated the rector of the church to the rank of archpriest and gave him a high church award – a mitre.
During the service, the believers prayed for peace in Ukraine and the unity of world Orthodoxy. Prayers were also offered for combating coronavirus infection and the health of medical workers.
After the Divine Liturgy, Archbishop Nathanael addressed all those present with a welcoming speech.
As reported, on March 10, 2019, the St. Nicholas Church in the village of Zvyniache passed into the jurisdiction of the OCU. Over 60 local residents remained faithful to the canonical Church and continue to perform divine services in the old house.