Panka persecuted UOC community celebrates patronal feast in a house church
Despite losing their church, the community continues to gather for services and keep their spiritual life alive.
On November 5, 2025, the persecuted community of the Ukrainian Orthodox Church in the village of Panka, Storozhynets Deanery, prayerfully celebrated its patronal feast in a house church dedicated to Saint Demetrius of Thessaloniki.
Despite the loss of their temple and pressure from supporters of the OCU, the faithful gathered to glorify their heavenly protector. The festive service was led by the parish rector, concelebrated by the clergy of the deanery. Many believers came to support the community that has remained loyal to the canonical Church.
After the Divine Liturgy, a procession with icons and banners was held around the house church. The faithful offered prayers to Saint Demetrius, asking the Lord for peace, protection, and strength in faith. Despite hardships, the community continues to hold services and preserve its vibrant church life.
It should be recalled that on April 5, 2025, in the village of Panka, Chernivtsi region, representatives of the OCU, supported by a group of raiders who had no connection to the village or the local parish, carried out a violent seizure of the UOC’s Church of Saint Demetrius.
Earlier, the UOJ reported that the Vyshhorod clergy had expressed support for the persecuted UOC community in Novosilky.
