Warden of Kyiv-Pechersk Lavra reveals the number of monks in the monastery
According to Archimandrite Polycarp, the SBU (Security Service of Ukraine) has compiled lists that determine when monks are allowed to enter and exit the Lavra.
In an interview with the YouTube channel “DNK”, Archimandrite Polycarp (Linenko), the warden of the Kyiv-Pechersk Lavra, spoke about the current life in the monastery, which is closed to believers.
"Of course, times are not easy now. There have been many trials in the history of the Lavra – the Mongol-Tatars, the Poles, and the Soviet regime. And now it is not an easy time either. But the Lord does not abandon us," said the archimandrite.
He mentioned that there are around 170 monks and novices in the Lavra at present.
"Due to recent events, some brothers, about 10–15 people, have dispersed to other locations. But the majority of the brethren have remained, and monastic life continues. The services are held daily. Despite all the difficulties, we strive to maintain our traditions," said Archimandrite Polycarp.
He also revealed that an "OCU community" has settled in the Lavra, but the monks do not come into contact with them.
"They live separately in buildings 70 and 49, where the office used to be. In all other buildings, we live in our cells as we always have. Before Lent, we continued our usual practice with three Liturgies every day. One in the caves and two in the upper territory: for St Sergius and St Agapitus, so that people have access to the church, to communion, and confession," said the archimandrite.
He added that the monks are not being physically evicted from their cells for now.
"We can live, serve, leave and return to the territory. The SBU has compiled personal lists for us. I go up, show my pass to the police at the entrance, they check it and solemnly let me through by the list. We can walk around the territory, have electricity and water in the buildings, and even the radiators were warm this winter. So, everything is fine externally," said Fr Polycarp.
Despite the persecution, he believes that "by the prayers of Sts Antony and Theodosius, by the prayers of all the saints resting in the caves, the Lord will not abandon this holy place."
"As St Antony said, 'Do not be afraid, brothers, the Lord is with us, and no one can resist His will,'" concluded the warden of the monastery.
Earlier, the UOJ reported that the Patriarch of Jerusalem expressed support for the abbot of the Kyiv-Pechersk Lavra.
