How the miracle happened: the Archbishop of the UOC-MP explained the joint prayer with the OCU.

Joint prayer for Ukraine on Easter in Chernihiv

A joint prayer for Ukraine took place at the Holy Trinity Cathedral in Chernihiv. Representatives of different denominations participated in this event. It is notable that Archbishop Nikodim (Pustovhar) of the Lubensky UOC-MP was also present at the prayer.

We approached the relics, talked among ourselves. When the Council of Churches created in Chernihiv did not invite us to its meetings even once. Because now we are – as if outside the law, we are nowhere, we are not invited anywhere

The Archbishop mentioned that he was invited to the prayer and he agreed to come. The clergy of the Orthodox Church of Ukraine (OCU), the Ukrainian Greek Catholic Church (UGCC), the Roman Catholic Church, and the Protestant Church of 'Salvation' also participated in the prayer.

Other views and laws

According to law No. 8371, religious organizations that have a central administration in the aggressor state are prohibited from operating in Ukraine. Within eight months after the adoption of this law, religious communities were required to sever ties with Moscow.

The Archbishop of the UOC-MP has previously opposed the interference of the Russian Orthodox Church in the affairs of the UOC, but he is critical of the idea of transitioning to the OCU. He believes that his view on political pressure could harm church understanding.

Analysis

The joint prayer of different denominations and the refusal of some bishops to transition to the OCU indicate a complex situation in the religious life of Ukraine and the need for dialogue between church institutions to maintain peace and tranquility among believers.