Dumenko paying a visit to Phanar

The head of the Orthodox Church of Ukraine, Epifaniy Dumenko, arrived in Istanbul on 26 January for an official meeting with Patriarch Bartholomew, reports the OCU press service.

Metropolitan Maxim of Silivria and Ukrainian diplomats met Epiphanius at the Istanbul airport.

On January, 27th, the head of the OCU will take part in the service in honour of the transfer of St. John Chrysostom's relics, which is to take place in the Patriarchal Church of St George, Phanar, and have an official meeting with Patriarch Bartholomew.

Dumenko will be accompanied by OCU spokesman Evstratiy Zoria.

As reported, the OCU received a separate cell from its allies on Mt Athos. Dumenko's supporters promise to set up a "Ukrainian House" on the Holy Mountain.