Metropolitan Theodosiy speaks of planned raids on UOC churches in Cherkasy
Metropolitan Theodosiy called on the clergy and parishioners to remain united and to "defend the holy places from the barbarians."
On April 1, 2025, Metropolitan Theodosiy of Cherkasy and Kaniv (UOC) stated that, according to information from various sources, supporters of the Orthodox Church of Ukraine (OCU), with backing from security forces, may soon attempt to forcibly seize two churches in Cherkasy.
This time, the targeted churches are those of the Holy Apostle Andrew the First-Called and the Nativity of Christ in the city of Cherkasy.
The hierarch reported that employees in several publicly funded institutions were warned they must show up in the morning to participate in actions against the shrines of the Ukrainian Orthodox Church. Those who refuse, he said, are being threatened with possible dismissal.
The attack could happen in the coming days. As soon as the exact date and time are known, the Orthodox community of Cherkasy will be immediately informed.
Metropolitan Theodosiy called on clergy and parishioners to stand united and to "defend the holy places from the barbarians."
He emphasized that the churches in question, along with the land on which they stand, are the property of the Cherkasy Diocesan Administration of the UOC and are backed by all the necessary legal documentation.
"No so-called 'communities' have ever owned these churches, nor do they have any legal rights to them," the bishop stated.
He reminded that the illegal seizure of churches is a crime, and responsibility for such actions will fall not only on the organizers but also on all participants.
The Metropolitan also stressed that the faithful in Cherkasy do not intend to stand by idly: "We will not give up our holy places! We remember how they seized the cathedral, which now stands empty. The raiders have already brought shame on our city. Repent and fear God!"
