Chernivtsi cathedral community gathers to defend their sanctuary

Gathering of the UOC cathedral community in Chernivtsi. Photo: Diocesan press service

The community of the Holy Spirit Cathedral of the Ukrainian Orthodox Church (UOC) in Chernivtsi intends to defend their sanctuary against raider attacks. On the evening of February 19, 2025, believers are gathering in the church for prayer, according to the Chernivtsi-Bukovyna Eparchy’s press service on Telegram. They emphasize that "information from various sources indicates that an assault on the Holy Spirit Cathedral is being prepared."

"The clergy and laity have begun gathering at the cathedral. Prayer will continue around the clock. The cathedral will not be closed today," the press service reported.

It will be reminded that earlier on February 19, reports spread on social media about an attempted takeover of three major UOC churches in Chernivtsi: the Holy Spirit Cathedral, as well as the St. Nicholas and Sts. Peter and Paul churches.

Earlier, the UOJ reported that on February 16, unidentified individuals gathered outside the fence of the UOC cathedral, shouting "Glory to the nation! – Death to the enemies!" before "transferring" three UOC churches to the OCU.

At the same time, inside the cathedral, more than 4,500 parishioners voted to remain faithful to the UOC under Metropolitan Onuphry.

On that same day, February 16, the press service of the Chernivtsi-Bukovyna Eparchy of the OCU declared the staged gathering of unknown individuals outside the cathedral as a "historic event" and congratulated UOC communities on their so-called "transition" to the OCU.

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