Kyiv Bids Farewell to Patriarch Filaret: Funeral Service Held at St. Volodymyr’s Cathedral.

Patriarch Filaret Laid to Rest

According to TSN.ua: On March 22, 2026, a funeral ceremony for Patriarch Filaret took place at St. Volodymyr’s Cathedral in Kyiv. He passed away two days earlier, on March 20, at the age of 97. The cause of death was complications arising from a worsening of chronic health conditions. Filaret formerly served as the head of the Ukrainian Orthodox Church of the Kyiv Patriarchate.

Filaret had been hospitalized on March 9, 2026, shortly before his death. Recalling their final meeting, His Beatitude Metropolitan Epiphanius shared the following:

“When I last saw the Vladyka in the hospital, he still said that on Sunday he would be at St. Volodymyr’s Cathedral.” – His Beatitude Metropolitan Epiphanius

These words highlight his unwavering dedication to his ministry, even during difficult times.

The funeral service served as a powerful moment of unity for many believers. Metropolitan Epiphanius further remarked:

“He is truly at St. Volodymyr’s Cathedral. He brought us together and united us in love.” – His Beatitude Metropolitan Epiphanius

Following Filaret’s death, Archbishop Nikodym of Sumy and Okhtyrka (Volodymyr Kobzar) will assume leadership of the Ukrainian Orthodox Church of the Kyiv Patriarchate, continuing his legacy.

The Significance of the Patriarch’s Passing

The death of Patriarch Filaret marks a pivotal moment for Ukraine’s Orthodox community and society at large. His long tenure as head of the Kyiv Patriarchate left a lasting impact on the country’s religious landscape and contributed to the shaping of Ukrainian national identity. The next chapter for the UOC-KP under Archbishop Nikodym’s guidance could prove decisive for the church’s future amid ongoing challenges.

This shift in leadership may also affect relations with other religious denominations and state institutions, warranting close attention from analysts and the faithful alike.