Zelensky and First Lady Pay Last Respects to Patriarch Filaret: Funeral Set for March 22.

Farewell to Patriarch Filaret

According to Novyny.live: On March 21, 2023, President Volodymyr Zelensky and his wife Olena Zelenska attended a farewell ceremony in Kyiv for Patriarch Filaret, who passed away the day before. The religious leader died on March 20, 2023, at the age of 97 due to complications from chronic illnesses. His funeral is scheduled for March 22, 2023. This event marks a significant moment for Ukraine, where the Patriarch was a towering figure in the nation's spiritual and religious life.

The public farewell to Patriarch Filaret began on March 20 at Kyiv's St. Michael's Cathedral. A funeral procession will carry his body from St. Michael's Monastery across Sophia Square to St. Volodymyr's Cathedral. The late Patriarch had repeatedly expressed his wish to be laid to rest at St. Volodymyr's Cathedral. Yevstratiy Zoria, spokesperson for the Ukrainian Orthodox Church, stated:

“His Holiness Patriarch Filaret wanted his final resting place to be in St. Volodymyr's Cathedral. He spoke of this many times. Therefore, honoring his will and wishes, the church will carry this out.”

The Legacy of Patriarch Filaret

Planned observances include a funeral liturgy and a memorial service in honor of Patriarch Filaret, underscoring his profound importance in the history of the Ukrainian Orthodox Church.

Patriarch Filaret was a central figure in Ukraine's religious landscape, playing a pivotal role in the establishment and growth of the Ukrainian Orthodox Church. His work helped strengthen religious identity in Ukraine and fostered spirituality during challenging periods for the country. The commemoration of his life reflects the deep respect and recognition of his contributions to the history of Ukrainian Orthodoxy.