Antiochian hierarch urges the world to pray for Metropolitan Arseniy
The hierarch of the Antiochian Church in Germany called Bishop Arseniy “a shining example of true pastoral love” and appealed for his release.
On November 6, 2025, Metropolitan Isaac (Barakat) of the Antiochian Orthodox Church in Germany and Central Europe issued a statement in defense of Metropolitan Arseniy of Sviatohirsk, reports the UOJ in Germany. In his message, he highly praised the hierarch’s ministry as an example of genuine pastoral love and urged believers to join together in prayer for the persecuted bishop.
“I sincerely pray to the Lord that He may strengthen Metropolitan Arseniy, heal him physically and spiritually, and that justice and mercy may soon prevail in his case,” said Metropolitan Isaac.
He called on all the faithful to unite in prayer for the speedy release of Bishop Arseniy, for his health, and for peace in the Church and in the country.
In the full text of his statement, Metropolitan Isaac wrote:
“With deep sorrow I watch the fate of Metropolitan Arseniy, my brother in episcopal service, who for so many years has served his people with love, humility, and self-sacrificing devotion. His life’s path, especially in the difficult times of war, is a shining example of true pastoral love. He remained with his people, comforted the suffering, and helped those in need.
I sincerely pray to the Lord that He may strengthen Metropolitan Arseniy, heal him physically and spiritually, and that justice and mercy may soon be revealed in his case.
I ask everyone who hears or reads these words to join me in prayer for his speedy release, for his health, and for peace in the Church and in the country.
May the Lord Himself shed light upon this dark situation and grant us all the courage to stand for the tr
uth and for the love of Christ.”
Earlier, the UOJ reported that a priest of the Bulgarian Church had also called for prayers for Bishop Arseniy.
