A delegation from the Ecumenical Patriarchate arrived in Kyiv yesterday afternoon, comprising Archbishop Hilarion of Winnipeg, Metropolitan Job of Pisidia, and Patriarchal Deacon Epiphanius Kamjanovich. The visit, originally scheduled for last year, had been postponed due to unforeseen issues.
The delegation’s purpose in Ukraine is to participate in the celebrations marking the 33rd anniversary of the country’s independence. They are also scheduled to meet with state authorities and ecclesiastical leaders to discuss key issues, including the ongoing challenges within the Orthodox community in Ukraine. A major focus of their visit will be on fostering dialogue and understanding between the various Orthodox factions in the country to promote unity.
Their visit coincides with a crucial moment following the passing of Bill 8371 by the Ukrainian Parliament, which prohibits the Ukrainian Orthodox Church associated with the Moscow Patriarchate. This new law also imposes restrictions on religious organizations affiliated with the Church, enforced through court orders.
Upon arrival, the delegation visited the Church of St. Andrew, a stauropegion of the Ecumenical Patriarchate, and met with Bishop Michael of Komana, Exarch of the Ecumenical Patriarchate in Ukraine.
Translated by: Konstantinos Menyktas
