U.S. Secretary of State Rubio Extends Condolences to Ukraine Over the Passing of Patriarch Filaret.

Condolences on the Death of Patriarch Filaret

According to Novyny.live: U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio has offered his sympathies to the people of Ukraine following the death of Patriarch Filaret, who passed away on March 20, 2023, at the age of 97. The cause of death was complications from chronic illnesses. As a towering figure in Ukrainian Orthodoxy, Patriarch Filaret’s passing has left a deep void among the faithful.

Recent Events and the Patriarch’s Legacy

The funeral and burial of Patriarch Filaret are scheduled for March 22, 2023. In the wake of his death, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy held a conversation with Metropolitan Epiphanius to discuss the state of the Ukrainian Orthodox community. On March 21, 2023, bishops of the Ukrainian Orthodox Church of the Kyivan Patriarchate elected a new Patriarch—Archbishop Nikodym of Sumy.

“We mourn the passing of His Holiness Patriarch Filaret and extend our heartfelt condolences to the people of Ukraine and all members of the Ukrainian Orthodox community.”

Marco Rubio

Concluding his remarks, he added: “May he rest in peace.” This gesture underscores the international recognition of Patriarch Filaret’s profound importance to the Ukrainian nation.

The loss of Patriarch Filaret is a major blow to Ukrainian Orthodoxy, as he played a pivotal role for decades in building and uniting this community. His legacy and influence will endure in the memories of countless believers.

The selection of a new Patriarch may mark a crucial step in the future development of the Ukrainian Orthodox Church and in strengthening its standing within society.