UOC: Reserve hinders worship services at Lavra under "protection" pretext

The UOC commented on the "protection" agreement concluded the day before between the National Reserve "Kyiv-Pechersk Lavra" and law enforcers.

The agreement between the Reserve and the Police Department on the "protection" of the Kyiv-Pechersk Lavra is regarded as additional pressure on the brethren of the monastery, the Lavra press service said.

The Kyiv-Pechersk Lavra noted that under the pretext of "protection", the Reserve intends "to prevent the performance of services and the use of structures and temples of the monastery".

"We urge law-enforcement agencies not to obstruct the brethren and believers who legally use the structures and temples of the Kyiv-Pechersk Lavra and not to violate their right to freedom of religion," the press service added.

As reported, Metropolitan Clement commented on the Reserve's actions to "protect" the Lavra.