Sumy metropolitan warns of potential consequences of regional occupation
The head of the Sumy Eparchy of the UOC has warned of forced changes to Church leadership in territories occupied by Russia.
On June 13, 2025, Metropolitan Yevlogy of Sumy and Okhtyrka addressed the clergy and faithful of the eparchy in response to the troubling situation developing in northeastern Ukraine. He voiced concern over potential ecclesiastical interference should the region fall under occupation.
In his message, published by the press service of the Sumy Eparchy of the Ukrainian Orthodox Church, the hierarch noted the advance of Russian forces deeper into the Sumy Oblast, including areas falling within the canonical territory of the eparchy.
“From the experience of other temporarily occupied territories, we know that military invasion is often followed by ecclesiastical interference – illegitimate appointments of new Church leaders, attempts to alter jurisdiction without the knowledge and blessing of our Primate and the Holy Synod,” the statement reads.
Metropolitan Yevlogy underscored that the entire territory of the Sumy Eparchy – encompassing the Sumy and Okhtyrka districts – remains the canonical jurisdiction of the Ukrainian Orthodox Church. According to Church norms, only the Primate of the UOC, Metropolitan Onuphry, and the Holy Synod have the authority to modify diocesan boundaries or appoint new hierarchs.
“Any attempt to alter this order – without the blessing of the Primate and the Holy Synod of the UOC – must be considered uncanonical, illegitimate, and devoid of any ecclesiastical authority,” the hierarch declared.
The message also underscores that the principle of non-interference in the governance of another autocephalous Church is a deeply rooted tenet of Orthodox canonical tradition, essential for preserving ecclesial peace.
Metropolitan Yevlogy called on the clergy and faithful to remain calm, united, and firmly loyal to the Ukrainian Orthodox Church, urging them not to succumb to panic or rumors.
Earlier, UOJ reported that Metropolitan Yevlogy had condemned the shelling of Sumy and expressed condolences to the victims.
