<?xml version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8"?><rss xmlns:atom="http://www.w3.org/2005/Atom" xmlns:content="http://purl.org/rss/1.0/modules/content/" version="2.0"><channel><title>News and articles UOJ</title><link>https://mzk.ge/en/</link><description>Articles and news about Orthodoxy, UOC and Christianity</description><language>en</language><lastBuildDate>Wed, 23 Sep 2026 14:03:26 +0400</lastBuildDate><atom:link href="https://mzk.ge/en/rss" rel="self" type="application/rss+xml" /><item><title><![CDATA[წმინდა ცოტნე აღმსარებლისა და წმინდა გაბრიელის სახელობის ტაძრის საძირკველი იკურთხება]]></title><link>https://mzk.ge/en/news/90319-tsminda-tsotne-aghmsareblisa-da-tsminda-gabrielis-sakhelobis-tadzris-sadzirkveli-ikurtkheba</link><description><![CDATA[25 ივლისს ნაძალადევში მშენებარე ტაძრის საძირკვლის კურთხევის ცერემონიას წალკელი ეპისკოპოსი გრიგოლი (კაცია) აღასრულებს.]]></description><pubDate>Fri, 24 Jul 2026 13:11:00 +0400</pubDate><category>News</category><content:encoded><![CDATA[25 ივლისს, 12:00 საათზე, ქ. თბილისში, ნაძალადევის რაიონში, ცოტნე დადიანის ქუჩა №100-ში, გაიმართება წმინდა ცოტნე აღმსარებლის (დადიანის) სახელობის ტაძრისა და წმინდა მამა გაბრიელ აღმსარებლის (ურგებაძის) ეკვდერის მშენებარე ტაძრის საძირკვლის კურთხევა.
საძირკვლის კურთხევის წმინდა წესს აღასრულებს წალკელი ეპისკოპოსი გრიგოლი (კაცია).
Блок - по темі (სამების საკათედრო ლავრის ტერიტორიაზე წმ. სვიმეონ კანანელის სახელობის ტაძარი შენდება)
ტაძრის მშენებლობის დაწყება მნიშვნელოვანი სულიერი მოვლენაა, რომელიც საფუძველს ჩაუყრის ახალი სალოცავის აღმართვას და კიდევ უფრო გააძლიერებს მართლმადიდებელთა სულიერ ცხოვრებას.
ორგანიზატორები ყველას მოუწოდებენ, მობრძანდნენ და ლოცვითა და დასწრებით გაიზიარონ ეს ისტორიული და სულიერი მნიშვნელობის დღე. ღმერთმა დალოცოს სრულიად საქართველო!
მართლმადიდებელ ჟურნალისტთა კავშირი ადრე წერდა,რომ მიტროპოლიტმა გერასიმემ კორცხელის დედათა მონასტერში ჯვარი აკურთხა.]]></content:encoded><guid>https://mzk.ge/en/news/90319-tsminda-tsotne-aghmsareblisa-da-tsminda-gabrielis-sakhelobis-tadzris-sadzirkveli-ikurtkheba</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[September 19 is the commemoration day of Archangel Michael]]></title><link>https://mzk.ge/en/news/87798-september-19-is-the-commemoration-day-of-the-archangel-michael</link><description><![CDATA[Feast of the Archangels - the day commemorating the miracle performed by Saint Archangel Michael in Khoni.]]></description><pubDate>Fri, 19 Sep 2025 11:57:00 +0400</pubDate><category>News</category><content:encoded><![CDATA[On September 19, the Orthodox Church commemorates Archangel Michael, the leader of the heavenly forces, who has been regarded for centuries as the conqueror of hostile forces and the protector of truth.
The local council of Laodicea (early 4th century, before the First Ecumenical Council of Nicaea) established the feast of angels, condemning the divine worship of angels and affirming their Orthodox veneration.
The feast is celebrated on the eighth day of November, as this date symbolically relates to the nine ranks of angels and the "eighth day," meaning the end of the world and the Last Judgment. However, there are also days of commemoration, including September 19, when the church especially remembers Archangel Michael.
In iconography, he is often depicted clad in armor, holding a spear or a fiery sword, with a defeated demon or serpent beneath his feet. This image emphasizes his victory over evil forces.
Archangel Michael is one of the most revered heavenly forces in the Christian world. In biblical texts, he is presented as the commander of the army, who, by God's will, fights against evil. According to the Holy Scripture, it was he who overthrew Lucifer, the shining angel, who fell from heaven due to pride and became a devil.
His name in Hebrew means "Who is like God?" — highlighting the incomparability of God. Therefore, Michael is recognized in the hearts of Christians as a protector of strength and purity. In various denominations, not only in Orthodoxy but also in Catholic and other Christian traditions, he is given special honor.
Earlier, SPJ reported that Archpriest David Jishkariani stated: "Orthodox shrines are inviolable."]]></content:encoded><guid>https://mzk.ge/en/news/87798-september-19-is-the-commemoration-day-of-the-archangel-michael</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA["Orthodox shrines are inviolable" - Archpriest David Jishkariani]]></title><link>https://mzk.ge/en/news/87795-orthodox-shrines-are-inviolable-archpriest-david-jishkariani</link><description><![CDATA[Priest David Jishkariani told the Union of Orthodox Journalists about the challenges and issues that are currently relevant for Georgia and the entire Christian world.]]></description><pubDate>Tue, 16 Sep 2025 15:57:00 +0400</pubDate><category>News</category><content:encoded><![CDATA[Union of Orthodox Journalists visited Archpriest David Jishkariani at Svetitskhoveli. In an interview, the clergyman spoke about the importance of strengthening the Church among the youth, the global processes taking place, and the role of Christian media.
Father, how should we strengthen the Church among the youth and bring them closer to Christianity?
"I have been serving in the Church for 45 years, our venerable confessor Gabriel used to say, we served together, he said, 'Christianity is love.' Christian activity should be strengthened, it should be taught in schools. Not everyone may come to the church, but everyone should participate, each should lay a brick to be a part of this great love, Christianity."
Recently, there have been many conflicts worldwide - for example, let's take the events in the Kyiv-Pechersk Lavra. In your opinion, how important is it for the state to support the Patriarchate of Ukraine? So that they can resume services in the churches
The legal dispute between the Ukrainian government and the Ukrainian Orthodox Church (UOC) is still ongoing — whether the churches of the Kyiv-Pechersk Lavra should be turned into cultural heritage only, or if services should continue to be held there.
"In the churches, the saints who rest there are untouchable, anyone who touches them will be punished, and they are placed there so that future generations can see them. There are relics of various saints there, both Georgian and from all countries. What does all this hinder them? It is said, 'The rider couldn't handle the horse, so he started breaking the saddle.' Of course, I do not consider this expedient."
And finally, what prayer-blessing will you give us, Father?
"We were talking about holy relics, what I have seen and observed (in videos and photos) the building of the church, the bringing of holy relics to Georgia, all this should continue. Giorgi Berishvili (President of the international organization 'Georgian Diaspora - Georgian Christian World') told me that he wants to create a second Jerusalem, what could be better than this, mutual respect, friendship, and love. When our children enter and pray there, nothing will bring greater joy and love."

Earlier, UOJ wrote that the Patriarch of Jerusalem expressed support for the head of the Kyiv-Pechersk Lavra]]></content:encoded><guid>https://mzk.ge/en/news/87795-orthodox-shrines-are-inviolable-archpriest-david-jishkariani</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Giorgi Berishvili responds to the confrontation on Melikishvili Avenue]]></title><link>https://mzk.ge/en/news/87770-giorgi-berishvili-responds-to-the-confrontation-on-melikishvili-avenue</link><description><![CDATA[The president of the Georgian diaspora in Ukraine, "Georgian Christian World," responded to the noisy confrontation that occurred at the election headquarters of the Mayor of Tbilisi.]]></description><pubDate>Tue, 09 Sep 2025 17:27:00 +0400</pubDate><category>News</category><content:encoded><![CDATA[```html
The President of the international organization "Georgian Diaspora in Ukraine - Georgian Christian World", Giorgi Berishvili, commented on the clash of protesters near Kakha Kaladze's election headquarters on September 8 in an interview with SPJ.
"Beloved brothers and sisters in Christ, I address you with love and respect. Let us not give evil the power to dominate our hearts and lives. We are in a world that is only a preparation for our eternal life and heavenly kingdom.
Let us remember that every step, every word, and deed determines our spiritual path. Therefore, let us love one another, be tolerant and warm-hearted towards each other, for love is the true sign of Christianity and the path to salvation. Let us strengthen our faith, preserve purity, and never lose hope in the Lord's mercy."
On September 8, 2025, protests began near the election headquarters of Tbilisi mayoral candidate Kakha Kaladze on Melikishvili Avenue. That day, there was a noisy confrontation between government supporters and protesters. Several people were injured, and three participants in the fight were arrested by the police. Protesters called on the government to release political prisoners and chanted: "Slaves!", "Russians!"
 
```]]></content:encoded><guid>https://mzk.ge/en/news/87770-giorgi-berishvili-responds-to-the-confrontation-on-melikishvili-avenue</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[The Union of Orthodox Journalists begins active work in Georgia]]></title><link>https://mzk.ge/en/news/87765-the-union-of-orthodox-journalists-begins-active-work-in-georgia</link><description><![CDATA[The goal of the Union of Orthodox Journalists is to strengthen the Orthodox faith, protect Christian values, and promote them in the wider society.]]></description><pubDate>Thu, 04 Sep 2025 14:20:00 +0400</pubDate><category>News</category><content:encoded><![CDATA[In Georgia, the Union of Orthodox Journalists has been established – it is an international organization that is already successfully operating in 10 countries. Its main goal is to strengthen the Orthodox faith, protect Christian values, and promote them widely in society.
For us, Georgia holds a special place as a country dedicated to the Mother of God. It is here, where for centuries faith and the church have been the foundation of national identity, that we see a particular need to strengthen the Orthodox voice and provide the public with reliable, in-depth, and fair information.
Our goal is singular: to make the Orthodox religion in Georgia stronger, to reinforce faith among the people, to protect the interests of the church, and to give the public the opportunity to better understand the depth and significance of the holy Orthodox faith. The Union of Orthodox Journalists in Georgia is beginning active work in the service of faith, truth, and spiritual values.
On November 21, 2024, the UOJ registered a new legal entity in Europe and also opened branches on Mount Athos, in Bulgaria, Germany, Greece, Serbia, the USA, Albania, Ukraine, the Czech Republic, and Slovakia. In the future, the opening of branches in various countries is planned.]]></content:encoded><guid>https://mzk.ge/en/news/87765-the-union-of-orthodox-journalists-begins-active-work-in-georgia</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Scientists invent brain-computer chip capable of reading human minds]]></title><link>https://mzk.ge/en/news/87757-scientists-invent-brain-computer-chip-capable-of-reading-human-minds</link><description><![CDATA[The "brain-computer" interface will help people who have lost the ability to speak communicate through the power of thought.]]></description><pubDate>Wed, 20 Aug 2025 09:16:00 +0400</pubDate><category>News</category><content:encoded><![CDATA[Researchers from Stanford University have developed an experimental a brain-computer interface (BCI) device capable of translating human thoughts into text. The implant was correct up to 74% of the time.
BCIs work by connecting a person’s nervous system to devices that can interpret their brain activity, allowing them to take action like using a computer or moving a prosthetic hand with only their thoughts.
“This is the first time we’ve managed to understand what brain activity looks like when you just think about speaking,” said Erin Kunz, one of the study’s authors and a researcher at Stanford University in the United States.
Four people, who had microelectrodes implanted in the motor cortex of the brain, the part responsible for speech, participated in the experiment. Participants were asked either to attempt to speak or to imagine pronouncing certain words. Artificial intelligence was trained to interpret the words that participants thought but did not say. In the demonstration, the brain chip was able to translate imagined sentences with an accuracy of up to 74%.
Notably, researchers also tested a password system to prevent unauthorized decoding of innner speech. The system recognised the password with around 99 per cent accuracy.
Frank Willett, co-author of the study and assistant professor of neurosurgery at Stanford University, stated: "This work gives real hope that speech BCIs can one day restore communication that is as fluent, natural, and comfortable as conversational speech."
For now, brain chips cannot interpret inner speech without significant guardrails. But the researchers said more advanced models may be able to do so in the future.
As the UOJ reported earlier, according to Musk, people will have the ability for high-speed thought exchange.]]></content:encoded><guid>https://mzk.ge/en/news/87757-scientists-invent-brain-computer-chip-capable-of-reading-human-minds</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[In Lavra, reserve staff carrying out manipulations with saints' relics ]]></title><link>https://mzk.ge/en/news/87756-in-lavra-reserve-staff-carrying-out-manipulations-with-saints-relics-</link><description><![CDATA[Museum workers take the reliquaries outside and dry something.]]></description><pubDate>Wed, 20 Aug 2025 08:41:00 +0400</pubDate><category>News</category><content:encoded><![CDATA[On August 19, 2025, employees of the Lavra museum carried out unknown manipulations with the relics of the Venerable Pechersk Saints in the Near Caves, reports the Telegram channel "Fortress Lavra", publishing the corresponding photographs.
In the photos, an unknown man is doing something in an open reliquary placed at the entrance to the Near Caves. Nearby, liturgical vestments are hung on a rope.
"It looks wild, terrible, and disrespectful to our saints. What is happening with the relics is unknown. Since the brethren were banned from accessing the caves several months ago, our saints are in a completely unknown state. The feeling of terrible sacrilege does not leave," wrote the authors of the channel.
As reported, in March 2025, reserve employees, under police escort, broke the locks on the Near and Far Caves of the Kyiv-Pechersk Lavra. Since then, the fate of the saints' relics is unknown.
On March 28, 2025, members of the Ministry of Culture commission for veryfying the "presence of relics", accompanied by the police, broke the locks on the doors leading to the Near and Far Caves and replaced them with their own.]]></content:encoded><guid>https://mzk.ge/en/news/87756-in-lavra-reserve-staff-carrying-out-manipulations-with-saints-relics-</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Usyk comes to Lavra to support UOC worshippers]]></title><link>https://mzk.ge/en/news/87755-usyk-comes-to-lavra-to-support-uoc-worshippers</link><description><![CDATA[The boxing champion was photographed with participants of the prayer standing.]]></description><pubDate>Tue, 19 Aug 2025 21:24:00 +0400</pubDate><category>News</category><content:encoded><![CDATA[Boxer Oleksandr Usyk came to support the participants of the prayer standing under the Kyiv-Pechersk Lavra. This was reported by human rights activist Viktoriya Kokhanovska, who published the corresponding photo.
In the photo, Usyk is standing near the Lavra Church of Saint Sergius of Radonezh next to the UOC worshippers. 
"Today (Usyk) supported the UOC prayer participants standing for the protection of the Kyiv-Pechersk Lavra, I'm publishing it as news," wrote Kokhanovska, noting that she has "a lingering pain".
"The UOC: we are different in the one Church of Christ," she concluded.
Earlier, the UOJ wrote that in 2023 Usyk confirmed his faithfulness to the UOC, but stated the need for its cleansing from «scoundrel» priests.]]></content:encoded><guid>https://mzk.ge/en/news/87755-usyk-comes-to-lavra-to-support-uoc-worshippers</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Ecumenical Patriarch to decide on Metropolitan of Paphos by late September]]></title><link>https://mzk.ge/en/news/87754-ecumenical-patriarch-to-decide-on-metropolitan-of-paphos-by-late-september</link><description><![CDATA[According to the head of the Church of Cyprus, Constantinople will support the Synod's decision to remove the Paphos hierarch.]]></description><pubDate>Tue, 19 Aug 2025 21:05:00 +0400</pubDate><category>News</category><content:encoded><![CDATA[Archbishop Georgios of Cyprus stated that he expects the decision of the Ecumenical Patriarchate on the appeal of former Metropolitan Tychikos of Paphos by the end of September this year, reports UOJ in Greece.
The relevant statements were made by the Primate of the Church of Cyprus on August 15, 2025, at the Trooditissa Monastery on the Feast of the Dormition of the Most Holy Theotokos.
He emphasized that he does not wish to anticipate the decisions of the Constantinople Patriarchate. At the same time, the archbishop expressed confidence that the Ecumenical Patriarchate will support the decision of the Synod of the Church of Cyprus to remove Metropolitan Tychikos from the Paphos See.
Earlier, UOJ reported that the Archbishop of Cyprus is blackmailing Patriarch Bartholomew with the commemoration of Metropolitan Onuphry.]]></content:encoded><guid>https://mzk.ge/en/news/87754-ecumenical-patriarch-to-decide-on-metropolitan-of-paphos-by-late-september</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[UOC expresses condolences to families of Kharkiv shelling victims]]></title><link>https://mzk.ge/en/news/87753-uoc-expresses-condolences-to-families-of-kharkiv-shelling-victims</link><description><![CDATA[In the churches of the Kharkiv Eparchy, on the day of mourning, prayers are offered for the repose of the innocently deceased residents of the city.]]></description><pubDate>Tue, 19 Aug 2025 18:32:00 +0400</pubDate><category>News</category><content:encoded><![CDATA[On August 18, 2025, Metropolitan Onuphry of Kharkiv and Bohodukhiv expressed condolences to the families of those killed and injured in the shelling of Kharkiv. This was reported by the press service of the Kharkiv Eparchy.
"On behalf of the clergy and the flock of the Kharkiv Eparchy, I express deep prayerful condolences to the families and loved ones of the victims, and I also wish a speedy recovery to those injured as a result of the shelling by Russian aggressors in the city of Kharkiv on the morning of August 18. In the churches of the Kharkiv Eparchy, on the day of mourning, prayers are offered for the repose of our innocent deceased citizens," the statement says.
As reported, on the morning of August 18, as a result of a drone attack on a residential building in the Industrial district of Kharkiv, a family of seven was killed. More than twenty residents were injured.
Earlier, the UOJ reported that a Russian drone killed a UOC archimandrite in the Kharkiv region.]]></content:encoded><guid>https://mzk.ge/en/news/87753-uoc-expresses-condolences-to-families-of-kharkiv-shelling-victims</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Zhytomyr RSA reports on re-registration of 16 UOC churches to OCU]]></title><link>https://mzk.ge/en/news/87752-zhytomyr-rsa-reports-on-re-registration-of-16-uoc-churches-to-ocu</link><description><![CDATA[An official of the Zhytomyr Regional State Administration reported that since 2019, the authorities have re-registered 134 UOC communities in favor of the OCU.]]></description><pubDate>Tue, 19 Aug 2025 17:44:00 +0400</pubDate><category>News</category><content:encoded><![CDATA[On August 18, 2025, the Zhytomyr RMA announced the re-registration of 16 UOC communities in favor of the OCU in 2025, reports the resource «Suspilne. Zhytomyr».
The publication specifies that on the air of “Ukrainian Radio Zhytomyr,” the information about re-registrations was provided by Oleksandr Pyvovarsky, the chief specialist of the Department for the Protection of Cultural Heritage and Religions of the Zhytomyr Regional State Administration. According to him, since 2019, the administration has re-registered 134 communities of the Ukrainian Orthodox Church.
"The trend is as follows: in 2019, there were 13 transitions, in 2020 – 8, in 2021 – 1, in 2022 – 36, in 2023 – 41, in 2024 – 19, and in 2025 as of August – 16 transitions. But in reality, there have been many more transitions. The fact is that there are two types of transitions. One type of transition, which is reflected in this statistic, is when there is a change of denomination, the transition of a UOC parish in spiritual communion with the Moscow Patriarchate to the OCU," the official noted.
It was previously reported that more than half of Ukrainian citizens do not support interference in the internal life of the Ukrainian Orthodox Church. This is evidenced by the results of a sociological study conducted by the SOCIS Center in June 2025.
Earlier, the UOJ reported that the Chernihiv RSA reported the seizure of 37 UOC churches in favor of the OCU.]]></content:encoded><guid>https://mzk.ge/en/news/87752-zhytomyr-rsa-reports-on-re-registration-of-16-uoc-churches-to-ocu</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[On Transfiguration Day, UOC Primate leads Liturgy at Bancheny Monastery]]></title><link>https://mzk.ge/en/news/87749-on-transfiguration-day-uoc-primate-leads-liturgy-at-bancheny-monastery</link><description><![CDATA[Many hierarchs came to Bancheny for the anniversary of Metropolitan Longin.]]></description><pubDate>Tue, 19 Aug 2025 17:16:00 +0400</pubDate><category>News</category><content:encoded><![CDATA[On the Feast of the Lord's Transfiguration on August 19, 2025, the Primate of the UOC, His Beatitude Onuphry, led the Liturgy at the Bancheny Monastery, reports a UOC correspondent.
At the service, Metropolitan Gabriel of Lovech (Bulgarian Church), the UOC Chancellor, Metropolitan Antoniy, Metropolitan Meletiy of Chernivtsi, Metropolitan Serhiy of Ternopil, Metropolitan Clement of Nizhyn, Metropolitan Sylvester of Bilohorodka, Archbishop Siluan, Bishop Cleopa, Bishop Athanasiy, Bishop Seraphim, other hierarchs, as well as the episcopate and clergy of the Moldovan Church joined the prayer.
Thousands of people prayed at the open-air Liturgy.









His Beatitude Onuphry wished Metropolitan Longin strength in spirit and body. "May you continue to perform your archpastoral ministry diligently and zealously, like the prophet Elijah. May the Lord bless all your labors and always cover you with His almighty grace," said His Beatitude.
He awarded the metropolitan with the Primate's insignia. The hierarch of the Moldovan Church, on behalf of its Primate, awarded the Bancheny hierarch with the Order of Saint Gabriel.
Earlier, the UOJ reported that a Bulgarian hierarch led the all-night vigil at the Bancheny Monastery.]]></content:encoded><guid>https://mzk.ge/en/news/87749-on-transfiguration-day-uoc-primate-leads-liturgy-at-bancheny-monastery</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Head of Ukrainian Uniates claims UGCC is not part of RCC structure]]></title><link>https://mzk.ge/en/news/87750-head-of-ukrainian-uniates-claims-ugcc-is-not-part-of-rcc-structure</link><description><![CDATA[Shevchuk emphasized that the Uniates are seeking patriarchal status as a sign of the Church’s “maturity”.]]></description><pubDate>Tue, 19 Aug 2025 17:04:00 +0400</pubDate><category>News</category><content:encoded><![CDATA[On August 18, 2025, the head of the Ukrainian Greek Catholic Church (UGCC), Sviatoslav Shevchuk, stated during a round table in Kyiv that the structure he leads is in communion with the Pope of Rome, but does not belong to the "Western Patriarchate". This was reported on the UGCC website.
According to Shevchuk, the UGCC considers the ancient Constantinople as its mother Church and strives to create a "unified Kyiv Church". "We are a local Church that is in communion with the Pope of Rome, but we do not belong to the Western Patriarchate. We are building our own," said the head of the Uniates.
He emphasized that the UGCC is seeking to obtain patriarchal status, which, in his words, is not about jurisdiction but the “maturity” of the Church. "We cannot abandon the idea of a patriarchate because for us it means to stop living," added Shevchuk.
Let us recall that in 2011, Sviatoslav Shevchuk was appointed by Pope Benedict XVI as the Major Archbishop of the UGCC, and Mykola Bychok, the bishop of the UGCC in Australia and New Zealand, was elevated to the rank of cardinal by Pope Francis in 2024.
Earlier, the UOJ quoted Shevchuk's words that the claim about the emergence of the Uniates as a result of the 1596 Union of Brest is a lie and “Moscow propaganda”.]]></content:encoded><guid>https://mzk.ge/en/news/87750-head-of-ukrainian-uniates-claims-ugcc-is-not-part-of-rcc-structure</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Cross procession from Kamianets-Podilskyi sets out to Pochaiv Lavra]]></title><link>https://mzk.ge/en/news/87748-religious-procession-from-kamianets-podilskyi-sets-out-to-pochaiv-lavra</link><description><![CDATA[On the Feast of the Transfiguration of the Lord, UOC pilgrims of the UOC set out on a multi-day spiritual journey, gathering in the village of Dolzhok.]]></description><pubDate>Tue, 19 Aug 2025 16:26:00 +0400</pubDate><category>News</category><content:encoded><![CDATA[On August 19, 2025, after the festive Liturgy of the Transfiguration, a UOC procession set out from Kamianets-Podilskyi to the Pochaiv Lavra, reports a UOC correspondent.
This pilgrimage to the Lavra has been taking place for almost 200 years.
After the Liturgy, breakfast, and the blessing of the clergy of the Alexander Nevsky Cathedral of the UOC, the pilgrims left the church grounds and set off on their journey.
The two groups of the procession united in the village of Dolzhok on the outskirts of Kamianets-Podilskyi at the Church of the Nativity of the Blessed Virgin Mary. It is from here that the Great Procession traditionally begins each year – all previous stages are considered preparatory.
This year, the organizers decided to start the procession without the traditional prayer service at the church walls, in a more modest format. The pilgrims continued their spiritual journey without breaks and long rest.
The procession from Kamianets-Podilskyi to Pochaiv is one of the largest religious pilgrimages in Ukraine, attracting thousands of believers from across the country.
Earlier, the UOJ analyzed why authorities in many regions prohibit UOC processions.]]></content:encoded><guid>https://mzk.ge/en/news/87748-religious-procession-from-kamianets-podilskyi-sets-out-to-pochaiv-lavra</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Bulgarian hierarch leads all-night vigil at Bancheny Monastery]]></title><link>https://mzk.ge/en/news/87747-bulgarian-hierarch-leads-all-night-vigil-at-bancheny-monastery</link><description><![CDATA[The service was led by Metropolitan Gabriel of Lovech from the Bulgarian Orthodox Church.]]></description><pubDate>Tue, 19 Aug 2025 16:12:00 +0400</pubDate><category>News</category><content:encoded><![CDATA[On August 18, 2025, on the eve of the Feast of the Lord's Transfiguration, which is the patronal feast in the Transfiguration Skete belonging to the Bancheny Monastery, an all-night vigil was held at the main church of the monastery. This is reported on the Facebook page of the Chernivtsi-Bukovyna Eparchy of the UOC.
The service was led by Metropolitan Gabriel of Lovech of the Bulgarian Orthodox Church. He was concelebrated by the hierarchs of the Ukrainian and Bulgarian Orthodox Churches, the clergy of the Chernivtsi-Bukovyna Eparchy and guests in holy orders. The vigil took place in the main cathedral of the monastery.
The Skete of the Transfiguration of the Lord is closed: only the residents of the Ascension Monastery have access to it. However, once a year, on the day of the patronal feast of the Transfiguration of the Lord, all those wishing to pray are allowed onto its territory. 
The Skete opens the evening before the start of the service and remains accessible all night and the entire following day – on the very feast of the Lord's Transfiguration. During these days, believers have the opportunity to venerate the holy relics of the monastery.


Earlier, the UOJ wrote that the head of the Polish Church congratulated the Primate of the UOC on the anniversary of his enthronement.]]></content:encoded><guid>https://mzk.ge/en/news/87747-bulgarian-hierarch-leads-all-night-vigil-at-bancheny-monastery</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Church celebrates the Transfiguration of the Lord]]></title><link>https://mzk.ge/en/news/87746-church-celebrates-the-transfiguration-of-the-lord</link><description><![CDATA[On Mount Tabor, Christ revealed His Divine glory to the disciples.]]></description><pubDate>Tue, 19 Aug 2025 09:00:00 +0400</pubDate><category>News</category><content:encoded><![CDATA[On August 19 (August 6 according to the Julian calendar), the Church celebrates one of the main Twelve Great Feasts – the Transfiguration of Our Lord God and Savior Jesus Christ. This day reminds believers of the greatest Gospel event when the Son of God revealed His Divine nature to the chosen disciples.
According to the Gospel narrative, Jesus Christ took with Him the apostles Peter, James, and John and led them up a high mountain – traditionally believed to be Mount Tabor in Galilee. There, during prayer, the Savior was transfigured before them: His face shone like the sun, and His clothes became white as light.
The disciples saw the prophets Moses and Elijah appear, who were talking with Christ about His upcoming sufferings in Jerusalem. Astonished by what he saw, the apostle Peter proposed to make three tabernacles (shelters) – for Jesus, Moses, and Elijah.
At that moment, a bright cloud descended and enveloped them, and from it came the voice of the Heavenly Father: "This is My beloved Son, in whom I am well pleased; listen to Him." Hearing this, the apostles fell to the ground in fear, but Christ touched them and said: "Arise and don't be afraid."
The Transfiguration became a crucial revelation for the disciples, showing them the true nature of their Teacher shortly before His crucifixion. This feast reminds Christians that man is called to deification — transformation in the image of God.
Earlier, the UOJ wrote about why the Transfiguration is a new birth in Christ.]]></content:encoded><guid>https://mzk.ge/en/news/87746-church-celebrates-the-transfiguration-of-the-lord</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[UOC not legally part of Moscow Patriarchate – official]]></title><link>https://mzk.ge/en/news/87744-uoc-not-legally-part-of-moscow-patriarchate-official</link><description><![CDATA[An employee of the Zhytomyr Regional Military Administration told journalists that there is no such legal entity in the Unified State Register as “the Ukrainian Orthodox Church in unity with the Moscow Patriarchate.”]]></description><pubDate>Mon, 18 Aug 2025 22:30:00 +0400</pubDate><category>News</category><content:encoded><![CDATA[The Ukrainian Orthodox Church is not legally part of the Moscow Patriarchate. This was stated to journalists by Oleksandr Pyvovarskyi, chief specialist of the Department for the Protection of Cultural Heritage and Religions of the Department of Culture and Tourism of the Zhytomyr Regional Military Administration, according to Suspilne.
Speaking about the situation with the so-called transitions of UOC communities to the OCU, he referred to the UOC as “the UOC in spiritual unity with the Moscow Patriarchate.”
“In general, I want to draw attention to the fact that people are often confused. There is the Ukrainian Orthodox Church in unity with the Moscow Patriarchate. But you will not find such a Church in the Unified State Register, because the prefix ‘in unity’ carries a spiritual-canonical, theological meaning,” Pyvovarskyi corrected himself, adding that “legally this Church is indeed not of the Moscow Patriarchate, because the Moscow Patriarchate is located in the city of Moscow.”
According to him, the prefix referring to the Moscow Patriarchate is added to the UOC “for convenience of designation.”
As the UOJ previously reported, UCCRO has spoken out in favor of continuing the persecution of the UOC.]]></content:encoded><guid>https://mzk.ge/en/news/87744-uoc-not-legally-part-of-moscow-patriarchate-official</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Garden set on fire at Russian Ecclesiastical Mission's metochion in Hebron]]></title><link>https://mzk.ge/en/news/87743-garden-set-on-fire-at-russian-ecclesiastical-missions-compound-in-hebron</link><description><![CDATA[The perpetrators threw hot coals wrapped in foil over the fence, which ignited the trees.]]></description><pubDate>Mon, 18 Aug 2025 22:02:00 +0400</pubDate><category>News</category><content:encoded><![CDATA[On August 15, 2025, a fire broke out on the territory of the embassy church of the Russian Ecclesiastical Mission in honor of the Holy Forefathers in Hebron, where the oak tree revered as the site of the biblical hospitality of Patriarch Abraham is located. According to the Mission’s website, police determined the blaze was caused by arson.
Fruit trees in the compound’s garden were damaged in the fire.
The flames nearly reached the ancient oak, but thanks to the timely response of the monastery’s residents, the fire was contained with available means until a fire brigade quickly arrived.
Police reported that the arsonists had thrown hot coals wrapped in foil over the fence, igniting the trees. The ongoing heatwave exacerbated the situation.
According to Hieromonk Ambrose (Ignatov), sacristan of the Hebron metochion of the Holy Forefathers, the mission and its sacred sites are not currently under threat.
As the UOJ previously reported, leaflets calling for the killing of Christians recently appeared on church doors in Syria.]]></content:encoded><guid>https://mzk.ge/en/news/87743-garden-set-on-fire-at-russian-ecclesiastical-missions-compound-in-hebron</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Kamianske Eparchy holds UOC procession of the cross for peace in Ukraine]]></title><link>https://mzk.ge/en/news/87742-kamianske-eparchy-holds-uoc-procession-of-the-cross-for-peace-in-ukraine</link><description><![CDATA[On August 17, the procession of the cross visited six churches of Kamianske.]]></description><pubDate>Mon, 18 Aug 2025 21:11:00 +0400</pubDate><category>News</category><content:encoded><![CDATA[On August 14, 2025, a procession of the cross with numerous sacred relics of the churches of Kamianske began in the Kamianske Eparchy of the UOC, the eparchy’s press service reports.
Clergy and faithful offered prayers for deliverance from all calamities, for the coming of peace, for the soldiers, and for the entire Ukrainian people.
Participants in the procession had the opportunity to venerate sacred relics, among them: the icon of the Protection of the Most Holy Theotokos with a fragment of her robe; relics of St. Anatolius of Constantinople, the Great Martyr and Healer Panteleimon, the Great Martyr George the Victory-Bearer, the Great Martyr Demetrius of Thessalonica, Righteous Anna the mother of the Most Holy Theotokos, the Great Martyr Catherine, and the Great Martyr Barbara.
Over these days, the procession of the cross has visited more than a dozen churches in the city.
As the UOJ previously reported, a many-thousand-strong procession of the cross took place in Khust with the relics of Gabriel of Białystok.]]></content:encoded><guid>https://mzk.ge/en/news/87742-kamianske-eparchy-holds-uoc-procession-of-the-cross-for-peace-in-ukraine</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[“Our children will smash your children's faces”]]></title><link>https://mzk.ge/en/mysli-vsluh/87741-our-children-will-smash-your-childrens-faces</link><description><![CDATA[Larysa Nitsoy has now said something very important – that the supposed “right” of “first-class” Ukrainians to commit violence against “second-class” Ukrainians will be handed down to the next generations.]]></description><pubDate>Mon, 18 Aug 2025 16:43:00 +0400</pubDate><category>Thoughts aloud</category><content:encoded><![CDATA[The well-known children’s writer and staunch defender of the state language, Larysa Nitsoy, declared on a television broadcast that Ukrainian-speaking children will “smash the faces” of Russian-speaking ones, and that true patriots are raising them this way:
“We are raising them to smash the faces of Moscow-leaning children. And this is not a signal for the children. I want the parents of those Moscow-leaning children to finally hear this signal. We are warning that their children will face problems – from our children, from our grandchildren… We are saying: ‘And we will smash your children’s faces’… We are simply warning you that the conflict will continue into your children, and no one will endure it anymore. Ukrainians will not endure it. They will not.”
One could dismiss this as the private opinion of one not particularly refined woman. Unfortunately, it is not. For the past 11 years, figures like Nitsoy have been deliberately elevated by the authorities into positions of public influence. They are invited onto TV channels, published in the media, and their words are promoted as correct and patriotic.
This has led to a country effectively divided into “patriots” and “vatniks,” the “right” people and the “wrong” people, the “Aryans” and the “Untermenschen.” And the demarkation line is not always the language. Among believers of the “FSB-controlled” UOC there are countless Ukrainian-speakers who speak more purely and correctly than the most ostentatious “patriots.” Yet they too are treated as second-class people – ones who today may be humiliated and discriminated against.
One can easily recall, for example, the call of OCU cleric R. Hryshchuk to kill the parishioners of the UOC cathedral in Chernivtsi, who on June 17 had driven out the OCU thugs from their holy place.
Both Hryshchuk and Nitsoy – and many others – openly incite violence without the slightest fear. No criminal case for incitement to hatred will ever be opened against them, for they have received an unspoken mandate from the authorities. And Nitsoy has now voiced something crucial – that the supposed “right” of “first-class” Ukrainians to commit violence against “second-class” Ukrainians will be passed down to their children.
That the “Aryan” children will have the full right to beat the “Untermenschen.” This logic may even extend into religion: children of OCU members will oppress the children of UOC believers. Such is the “bright future” being drawn for us.
But the question remains – how long can a “united Ukraine” endure under such an ideology?]]></content:encoded><guid>https://mzk.ge/en/mysli-vsluh/87741-our-children-will-smash-your-childrens-faces</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Transfiguration – a new birth in Christ]]></title><link>https://mzk.ge/en/chelovek-i-cerkovy/87740-transfiguration-a-new-birth-in-christ</link><description><![CDATA[The path to spiritual rebirth lies through conscience, self-denial, and victory over one’s own “I.” What is the metamorphosis of the soul, and how do we let Christ enter our hearts?]]></description><pubDate>Mon, 18 Aug 2025 15:50:00 +0400</pubDate><category>Man and Church</category><content:encoded><![CDATA[“Transfiguration” is a wondrous word. It comes from the Greek metamorphosis. A metamorphosis is a reshaping, a transformation. The caterpillar becomes a butterfly; the old man becomes new.

Transfiguration is the spiritual birth of man into eternal life – when within us the mortal, the corruptible, the superficial, and the selfish dies, and from the shattered shell emerges the person God intended from the very beginning.

This true self even now lives deep within us – like a silent embryo, something elusive, mysterious, tranquil, unbound by anything external, passionless, calm, and filled with peace. This infant within us looks at all that happens as though from the side – watching and silent. It is our spirit, the great mystery that binds us to the Creator of the universe.
By body and psyche we differ little from other creatures. Yet in man alone there is a hidden door – and opening it, he steps directly into the presence of God. This door is our spirit, made in the image of God – a treasure possessed only by us. Nothing in the universe is more precious. And it is for this treasure that the great battle of the world is fought.
Guarding the entrance to this treasure stands a malicious little dwarf – the ego – pretending to be our true self. This false “I” frets over everything, fears all things, chatters endlessly in our mind, curious about trifles, restless and distracted. Meanwhile, the spirit remains silent, radiant in love, brimming with heavenly joy, serenity, and peace. The old man, on the other hand, is filled with anger, judgment, and agitation.

The soul may return to its spirit, may reunite with it, by entering through the door of dispassion. But first, one must defeat that cunning little monster called egoism.

When it dies, the world of enmity and hatred dies with it – and man finds himself in a new reality, filled with love and compassion. Outwardly, nothing changes: the same houses, the same roads, the same earthly life. Yet inwardly – everything is different.
Where does transfiguration begin? With small, simple things – with conscience. Our lives are woven of thousands of little deeds, but each of them can be illumined by a great heart.
Once, a friend of mine in the heat of summer went to visit the grave of her parents in a distant cemetery three kilometers from her village. After praying, she was about to leave when she heard a faint, pitiful mewing from the bushes. She found a half-dead kitten, abandoned by some cruel hand to perish. What to do? Walk away, telling herself, “Not my problem”? Or act according to conscience – for here was a living creature, suffering and longing to live?
She already had a dog at home, the house was under repair. Yet she could not leave the defenseless kitten to die. She took it home. The poor creature, frightened by the dog, ran out onto the balcony under repair and fell from a fifteen-meter height. Long weeks of care, expense, and operations followed. The kitten survived. Friends told her she was foolish. But her heart knew the truth: this was a test of love. Had she abandoned the kitten, her conscience would never have let her rest.
Yes, to act according to conscience often brings hardship.

But conscience is the first step toward Mount Tabor. Never go against it, however heavy the cross. Self-denial is the second step. Dispassion, the third.

Transfiguration always takes place through overcoming the resistance of one’s selfish will – when it is necessary to act as is right, and not as one desires. When a person sacrifices comfort, tranquility, and safety for the sake of what conscience, honor, responsibility, duty, and the truth of God demand, he begins to change. That is when the true metamorphosis occurs. Genuine joy comes only to those with a pure conscience. Others may have merriment, but it must not be confused with quiet, peaceful, radiant joy.
Egoism casts a shadow over every human amusement. The shadow of fear pursues a person daily. Our old man plays cunning games with us. He is endlessly curious and draws us to unravel the mysteries of the universe, to marvel at the secrets of the world around us, leaping from one branch that catches his interest to another just like it. The mind, in doing so, deceives us with false conclusions and diverts our attention from salvation.
Why do most people never undergo transfiguration, but seem instead to walk in circles year after year? Because small earthly pleasures are enough for them. They have no desire to look deeper within themselves. Yet if they were to do so, they would discover there the very heaven of their own spirit.

Our life will end in one of two ways: either we overcome the world, or the world overcomes us – unless we find Christ within our hearts.

The infinite life of Christ – in whom all lives and moves – is given not to those who love this present age, but to those who love God with all their heart, all their soul, all their mind. A little attentiveness, patience, and watchfulness over oneself, and a man learns by experience that nothing exists outside the spirit united with Christ. He who remembers God always forgets evil, as St. John Chrysostom taught.
Pride, self-opinion, self-pity, and sloth prevent the soul from ascending Mount Tabor. That is why God allows circumstances that humble our pride. Transfiguration is the union of the human spirit with the Spirit of Christ, and the peace born of it. Such a person radiates serenity, bringing peace to all creation. In this is true freedom – the independence of the soul.

A transfigured mind sees no enemies, no strangers, no division between good and evil people.

The good man wishes salvation for all. But if we hate even a single person – even our fiercest enemy – the light of Christ becomes inaccessible to us.
Evil does not come from people or circumstances, but from evil thoughts about them. Malice toward others is born of the malicious commentator within our own mind. We see its fruit on the internet, where bile and hatred, hidden in daily life, pour forth under false names in social media.

The world is hopelessly sick. It cannot be resurrected – but we can save ourselves from it, lest we perish with it.

How do we overcome the spiteful dwarf that lives within us? First, we must expose it – strip away its disguise. The holy fathers teach that this requires discernment. Ask yourself: “Who is it that thinks these thoughts in my mind, which I myself reject? Who grows angry, despondent, or lustful within me? If that is truly me, then who is the one within me that looks on and judges these thoughts?”
Thoughts are changeable, feelings as well; the body lives its own life, and the mind wanders across the whole world. But where am I? Where is my true consciousness? Our repentance is possible only because we can separate ourselves from that negativity which dwells within us – from that which we ourselves do not accept and with which we do not wish to identify.
When a man’s spirit discovers the mental parasite that disguises itself as our “I,” it begins to hunt it down. The old man fears to be exposed – he cannot endure the light. That is why carnal, unspiritual people are incapable of repentance. In their imagination, they always consider themselves right and others guilty. Their opinion, as they believe, is the center of the world and the measure of truth. Such people are incapable not only of genuine transformation of the soul, but even of faith in God – for faith requires repentance.

The reunion of the soul with the spirit – this is transfiguration.

It is the soul’s return to its native home, into the embrace of the Heavenly Father. Yet the road is long and arduous, demanding much effort and patience. If we are still mired in the swamp of sins, passions, and attachments, then we have not yet even begun. But if only we knew what awaited at the end of this path, we would waste no time on idle chatter or diversions.
As folk wisdom says: bees do not waste time proving to flies that nectar is better than filth – they simply gather honey. So must we hasten to live – for the days are evil, and God has not promised us tomorrow.]]></content:encoded><guid>https://mzk.ge/en/chelovek-i-cerkovy/87740-transfiguration-a-new-birth-in-christ</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Language ombudsman claims Ukraine is fighting “for our faith”]]></title><link>https://mzk.ge/en/news/87739-language-ombudsman-claims-ukraine-is-fighting-for-our-faith</link><description><![CDATA[Ivanovska called the UOC “an instrument of imperial policy.”]]></description><pubDate>Mon, 18 Aug 2025 14:29:00 +0400</pubDate><category>News</category><content:encoded><![CDATA[Olena Ivanovska, the Commissioner for the Protection of the State Language, stated on her office’s Facebook page that during negotiations with Trump, Putin allegedly “demanded that the Russian language be granted official status and that the Moscow Patriarchate be legitimized.” She did not specify where she obtained this information.
“These demands are cynical and unacceptable. They have nothing to do with human rights or freedom of choice. They are a weapon of ideological war aimed at undermining Ukrainian independence, dividing society, and returning us to a colonial status,” the official declared.
According to her, the Russian language is not a means of communication but rather “an instrument of imperial policy, which for centuries was used to instill a sense of inferiority.” Ivanovska asserted that the UOC, which she referred to as “the Moscow Patriarchate,” is “part of the same mechanism of subjugation.”
She emphasized that the deaths of thousands of Ukrainians in the war with Russia prove that “our language, our faith, our culture are not for sale.” The ombudsman did not clarify what she meant by “our faith.”
Earlier, the UOJ reported that UCCRO spoke in favor of continuing the persecution of the UOC.]]></content:encoded><guid>https://mzk.ge/en/news/87739-language-ombudsman-claims-ukraine-is-fighting-for-our-faith</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[UCCRO endorses continued pressure on the UOC]]></title><link>https://mzk.ge/en/news/87738-uccro-endorses-continued-pressure-on-the-uoc</link><description><![CDATA[The Ukrainian Council of Churches and Religious Organizations (UCCRO) assured that Ukraine is “known worldwide for its high standards of religious freedom, which are preserved and upheld even under martial law.”]]></description><pubDate>Mon, 18 Aug 2025 14:03:00 +0400</pubDate><category>News</category><content:encoded><![CDATA[UCCRO issued a statement regarding “media reports” that during negotiations with Trump, Putin allegedly “insisted on guarantees for granting the Russian language official status in Ukraine and ‘security for Russian Orthodox churches’” (quote from UCCRO – Ed.).
UCCRO declared that Ukraine is “known worldwide for its high standards of religious freedom, which are preserved and respected even under martial law,” and further claimed that Law 3894 (commonly referred to as the law banning the UOC) is based on “the principles of a democratic society.”
The statement asserted that DESS has “conducted such an inquiry and established that the religious association known as the Ukrainian Orthodox Church (UOC), through its central governing body – the Kyiv Metropolis – retains the characteristics of affiliation with the ROC defined in the law.”
“We, the members of the Ukrainian Council of Churches and Religious Organizations, express our support for the Ukrainian state in defending Ukraine’s legitimate interests at the international level and in building relations with other states based on the principle of 'reciprocity.' Ukraine must not be forced into 'asymmetric' obligations concerning the special status of the Russian language, culture, the Russian Orthodox Church, or participation in international organizations. Ukraine and the Ukrainian people have earned the right to independently choose their path of further development and cooperation with international partners,” UCCRO members stated.
Earlier, the UOJ reported that the authorities praised UCCRO for its “religious diplomacy.”]]></content:encoded><guid>https://mzk.ge/en/news/87738-uccro-endorses-continued-pressure-on-the-uoc</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Head of Czech Church сongratulates Met Onuphry on anniversary of his primacy]]></title><link>https://mzk.ge/en/news/87737-head-of-czech-church-songratulates-met-onuphry-on-anniversary-of-his-primacy</link><description><![CDATA[The Primate of the Church of the Czech Lands and Slovakia wished Metropolitan Onuphry to be “an inexhaustible source of consolation and hope.”]]></description><pubDate>Mon, 18 Aug 2025 13:17:00 +0400</pubDate><category>News</category><content:encoded><![CDATA[The Primate of the Orthodox Church of the Czech Lands and Slovakia sent a congratulatory message to His Beatitude Metropolitan Onuphry on the occasion of the anniversary of his primacy in the Ukrainian Orthodox Church.
In his address, the OCCzLS head emphasized the importance of His Beatitude Onuphry’s archpastoral ministry for the Ukrainian people.
“May your word, your prayer, and your fatherly care be an inexhaustible source of consolation and hope for the entire Ukrainian people,” the congratulatory message says.
The greeting highlights the significance of unity among the Orthodox Churches and their mutual support during this difficult period for Ukraine.
“I prayerfully wish you, Your Beatitude, strength of spirit and body, unfailing help from God, joy in Christ, and heavenly peace – under the protection of the Most Pure Mother of God and all the saints!” Metropolitan Rostislav noted.
Earlier, the UOJ wrote that the head of the Polish Church had congratulated the Primate of the UOC on the anniversary of his enthronement.]]></content:encoded><guid>https://mzk.ge/en/news/87737-head-of-czech-church-songratulates-met-onuphry-on-anniversary-of-his-primacy</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Khust hosts multi-thousand procession with relics of Gabriel of Białystok]]></title><link>https://mzk.ge/en/news/87736-khust-hosts-multi-thousand-procession-with-relics-of-gabriel-of-biaystok</link><description><![CDATA[About ten thousand believers, together with the clergy, prayed for peace in Ukraine.]]></description><pubDate>Sun, 17 Aug 2025 22:20:00 +0400</pubDate><category>News</category><content:encoded><![CDATA[On August 17, 2025, the city of Khust hosted the traditional religious procession with the relics of the Holy Martyr Gabriel of Białystok and other local saints.
About ten thousand believers, together with numerous clergy, offered prayers to the Lord, asking for peace in Ukraine and eternal memory for the fallen warriors-defenders.
The procession was led by Metropolitan Mark of Khust and Vynohradiv. Archbishop Simeon of Uhlia, Bishop Benjamin of Skadovsk, and Bishop Mark of Rakhiv also participated in the prayerful procession.
The participants of the procession walked through the streets of the city, offering prayers for peace in Ukraine and commemorating the fallen warriors. At the Alley of Warriors, the clergy conducted a litany in memory of the heroes who gave their lives for the Homeland.
The event concluded at the Sts. Cyril and Methodius Cathedral, where Metropolitan Mark granted blessings to all those gathered.

Earlier, the UOJ reported that in the Vinnytsia region, the procession from Brailiv to Pochaiv was canceled due to a government ban.]]></content:encoded><guid>https://mzk.ge/en/news/87736-khust-hosts-multi-thousand-procession-with-relics-of-gabriel-of-biaystok</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Shevchuk: The origin of Uniates from the Union is Moscow propaganda]]></title><link>https://mzk.ge/en/news/87735-shevchuk-the-origin-of-uniates-from-the-union-is-moscow-propaganda</link><description><![CDATA[The head of the UGCC revealed where the UGCC’s umbilical cord is buried.]]></description><pubDate>Sun, 17 Aug 2025 22:05:00 +0400</pubDate><category>News</category><content:encoded><![CDATA[On August 17, 2025, the head of the UGCC, Sviatoslav Shevchuk, stated during a meeting with the youth at Kyiv’s cathedral that claims about the Uniates emerging as a result of the Union of Brest in 1596 are false and constitute "Moscow propaganda".
"For so many centuries, Moscow propaganda told us that we were never in Kyiv. They told us that we were born, we emerged, do you hear, only in 1596, in the act of the Brest Union, the Uniate Church was formed. But this is not true," assured Shevchuk.
According to him, Greek Catholics "were born 1000 years ago here in Kyiv in the waters of the Dnieper in the Sacrament of baptism of Saint Prince Volodymyr".
"We as a church, as God's people, we are of Kyiv root," he stated. "Here are our roots, as they say in Cherkasy region, here our umbilical cord is buried when it comes to who we are as a people, as a church."
Shevchuk also stated that the UGCC is "the only Ukrainian Church that unites the global Ukrainian community within its fold".
"Today, far more Ukrainians seek the voice of our Church than those who confessionally call themselves Greek Catholics," emphasized the head of the UGCC.
As reported, earlier Shevchuk stated that the UGCC is the only Church uniting all Ukrainians.]]></content:encoded><guid>https://mzk.ge/en/news/87735-shevchuk-the-origin-of-uniates-from-the-union-is-moscow-propaganda</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Resounding emptiness: why OCU churches remain without parishioners]]></title><link>https://mzk.ge/en/zashhita-very/87734-resounding-emptiness-why-ocu-churches-remain-without-parishioners</link><description><![CDATA[On the New Style Dormition, the main feast of the Kyiv-Pechersk Lavra, the OCU has to bring parishioners by buses. Why don't parishioners come there on their own?]]></description><pubDate>Sun, 17 Aug 2025 16:05:00 +0400</pubDate><category>Faith Protection</category><content:encoded><![CDATA[On August 15, 2025, the head of the OCU, Epifaniy Dumenko, held a solemn "Liturgy" at the Kyiv-Pechersk Lavra. On this day, the Churches following the New Calendar celebrated the Dormition of the Most Holy Theotokos. Dumenko’s structure also observed this feast. It should be noted that the Dormition is a special day for the Ukrainian people. It is enough to recall that all three Lavras located within our country are dedicated to this feast. Thus, in the Kyiv Pechersk Lavra, the Dormition of the Mother of God is also a patronal feast. Naturally, for a structure that positions itself as the “people’s Church,” such events are of particular importance. It goes without saying that on the feast of the Dormition, the Kyiv-Pechersk Lavra should be full with parishioners. But reality turned out to be quite different.
The Lavra grounds, which before the expulsion of the UOC barely accommodated all those wishing to pray, was practically empty.


Moreover, the main church of the monastery, the Dormition Cathedral, also remained unfilled — there was plenty of free space, which was unimaginable in previous years.
The Dormition Cathedral of the Lavra on the Dormition feast. Photo: UOJ
At the same time, there would have been even fewer believers if not for the people whom the OCU representatives brought from the regions on special buses.
Buses used by the OCU to bring people to the Lavra from the regions. Photo: UOJ
Footage from the internet, taken on the morning of August 15, before the arrival of these buses, shows that without the "delivery" of parishioners, there would have been no more than a dozen at the Dormition Cathedral.


In fact, that was about the same number as attended the festive “all-night vigil” at the Dormition Cathedral on the eve of the main patronal feast.
The all-night vigil of the OCU. Photo: OCU TG channel
It should be noted that the all-night vigil is an integral part of a festive or Sunday service. Yes, usually somewhat fewer people attend it than the Divine Liturgy. But there cannot be only ten people standing at the all-night vigil of the patronal feast in the main shrine of a “local Church”. That just doesn’t happen.
However, let's return to the festive "Liturgy." Some might say that in the past, the UOC eparchies also organized buses for trips to Kyiv. They did but only for the Feast of St. Prince Vladimir, and that was due to the procession. For the Dormition, such a thing has never happened.
So why can't the OCU, claiming nationwide support, demonstrate this support? What is the problem?
Meeting "by directive"
Before answering this question, it should be noted that the emptiness of OCU churches is a widespread phenomenon, not an isolated case. And this applies not only to Kyiv but also to regions of Ukraine traditionally considered very religious.
For example, a few weeks ago, Epifaniy Dumenko made his first "archpastoral" visit to the newly created Kamianets-Podilskyi Eparchy of the OCU to consecrate the cathedral there. Agree, this event cannot be classified as ordinary — the "Primate of the local Church" is going to his flock, which in this region numbers no less than half a million. In the end, there were only about a hundred people who wished to meet Dumenko. And most of them were public sector employees: teachers, doctors, officials, who were organized to make up the numbers. Some of those present definitely were not church-goers, as seen even by their clothing. Some women stood in trousers, without headscarves, and even without crosses.
Dumenko in Kamianets-Podilskyi. Photo: OCU
In fact, this is a very telling moment. The true Church does not need administrative mobilizations: people go to church themselves, stand in the cold or heat to venerate the holy relics or pray with their primate. In this situation, as in the Lavra on the Dormition feast, there were very few people without administrative resources.
Emptiness the next day
But even more eloquent was the "hierarchical Liturgy" served by the Kamianets-Podilskyi "bishop" of the OCU the following Sunday. The consecration of the cathedral by Epifaniy Dumenko took place, ceremonial photos were taken, high Kyiv guests left. An ordinary Sunday came – and the church was empty.
This is the main day of the week for Orthodox Christians, a day when believers definitely go to the Liturgy, often with the whole family. But in the newly consecrated OCU cathedral, there was resounding emptiness.
Sunday service. Photo: OCU press service

Sunday service. Photo: OCU press service
The same scenario repeated on the Day of the Lord's Transfiguration. Usually, this feast gathers so many people that the church cannot accommodate everyone – apples and grapes have to be blessed outside. But the Kamianets "bishop" of the Dumenko structure had no problems with a lack of space in the church:

Sunday service. Photo: OCU 
Moreover, even with Epifaniy in Kyiv, during the service on the feast of the Transfiguration, there was space left in the church: there were few people, and there was simply no need to go outside.
OCU leadership’s illusions
So, we return to the question: why is this happening? In our opinion, it is because the leadership of the OCU bases its activities on illusions and misconceptions.
The fact is, Dumenko’s representatives think: “If we take over UOC churches, people will come because they’ll have nowhere else to go.” But as we see in practice, the seized temples remain empty or half-empty. In other words, people go to church not simply because it’s a church building, but in search of something more, which means a mere “change of affiliation” leads to nothing.
“If we serve in the Ukrainian language, the people will come,” Dumenko’s associates believe. But in reality, language is not the deciding factor. People don’t go to church just to hear the Ukrainian language, they are drawn by something beyond that.
Look at the number of people in the Pochaiv Lavra. This is a fully Ukrainian-speaking region. If Dumenko’s logic held true, they should all be in the OCU or the UGCC. But they’re not. They prefer to hear Church Slavonic.
The Liturgy at the Pochaiv Lavra on the Feast Day of the Pochaiv Icon of the Mother of God. Photo: Pochaiv Lavra's Telegram channel
In its attempts to draw people into its churches, the OCU is willing to try almost anything. For example, they were convinced that “if we adopt the new calendar, people will come,” because they believe people no longer want to pray on the same dates as Moscow. But in reality, the calendar is just an external form. If there is no living communion with God, no change of dates will revive spiritual life.
Similarly, OCU members believe that the UOC has so many faithful because of the holy relics — miracle-working icons, the relics of saints, and so on. That’s why, within the OCU there is an illusion that “if we take over the Kyiv-Pechersk Lavra or the Pochaiv Lavra, people will have no choice but to come to our services.” But again, people don’t go to the Lavra just for the buildings, or even for the relics – they come for prayer, for that spiritual atmosphere which has been built up over centuries in the monastery. If it is destroyed, pilgrims will stop coming, and no icons will help.
For this very reason, all of the illusions and misconceptions held by the OCU leadership are simply attempts to “rearrange the settings” — without addressing the Church’s primary mission: the salvation of souls.
The answer to why people don’t go to the OCU is very simple: people are looking for God in the church. Neither slogans, nor “statehood”, nor new calendars, nor patriotism. They want prayer, communion with God, and participation in the Sacraments. It was this that kept millions of Orthodox faithful in the Church even during the Soviet persecutions, when simply going to church could cost one their job or even their freedom.
The Church as the Body of Christ, not a social project

The main mistake of the OCU leadership is that they perceive the Church as a “project” that can be managed like a social or political organization. Their logic is simple: if you “market the product” correctly (change the language, calendar, style of communication, clerical hats, and vestments), then the “client will come”.

But the Church is not a project, nor is it a corporation or a tool of state policy. The Church is the Body of Christ. It is a community of people united by faith in God and the Sacraments. And that means where there is no true spiritual life, there will be no people, no matter how beautiful the facade may look.
Let us recall history. When the Bolsheviks created the “Renovationist Church” in the 1920s, the Renovationists had the full power of the state behind them. They had churches, the press, and government support. The persecuted Church had nothing but prayer and faith in God. Yet, it was that Church that drew the people; its churches were overcrowded, while the “Renovationist” ones remained empty.
Today, the situation with the OCU largely repeats the same scenario. The government, media, and opinion leaders all support and promote Dumenko, but people still do not go to the OCU. They don’t go because political slogans can never replace prayer, and no matter how loudly you shout “Glory to Ukraine!”, the whisper “Lord, have mercy” will always sound louder before God.
The OCU and Krylov’s fable
In fact, the situation with the OCU is best described by Ivan Krylov’s famous lines: “No matter how you sit, my friends, you’ll never make musicians.”
Dumenko and his circle simply fail to understand that music doesn’t depend on how the players are seated. If you don’t know how to play the violin or the cello, switching your stool for a luxurious chair won’t help. It’s the same with Christianity: it’s not clothing, not the calendar, not language, and not even relics that make a person a Christian, but a life lived with God. Yes, the OCU can change its rhetoric, shift emphases, and seize churches in the hope that people will start coming. But until they realize that spiritual life is built on entirely different foundations, all of this will remain mere imitation.
That’s why the absence of people in OCU churches is neither a coincidence nor a “management error”. It is evidence of a deep spiritual crisis. People can sense where the true Church is and where it is only a substitute. The people go where they feel the presence of God. And that is why, despite all the support from the authorities, the OCU remains a structure without the faithful.]]></content:encoded><guid>https://mzk.ge/en/zashhita-very/87734-resounding-emptiness-why-ocu-churches-remain-without-parishioners</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[ROCOR head congratulates His Beatitude Onuphry on enthronement anniversary]]></title><link>https://mzk.ge/en/news/87732-rocor-head-congratulates-his-beatitude-onuphry-on-enthronement-anniversary</link><description><![CDATA["We rejoice that the canonical Church in the territory of Ukraine has in Your person a tireless builder of Christ's vineyard," noted Metropolitan Nicholas.]]></description><pubDate>Sun, 17 Aug 2025 14:19:00 +0400</pubDate><category>News</category><content:encoded><![CDATA[On August 17, 2025, Metropolitan of Eastern America and New York, First Hierarch of the Russian Orthodox Church Outside of Russia, Bishop Nicholas sent congratulations on the eleventh anniversary of the enthronement to the UOC Primate, His Beatitude Metropolitan Onuphry. This was reported by the UOC Information and Education Department.
Metropolitan Nicholas stated that he, the episcopate, the clergy, and the God-loving flock of the Russian Orthodox Church Outside of Russia continually give thanks to the Lord for granting the Primate of the UOC spiritual and physical strength in his responsible and challenging ministry.
"We rejoice that the canonical Church in the territory of Ukraine has in Your person a tireless builder of the vineyard of Christ, who adorns the Church and sets an example for all on how to burn with passion in ministry to God and people,” the letter reads.
Metropolitan Nicholas of Eastern America and New York wished His Beatitude that the days and years of his life multiply for new labors to the greater glory of the Church of Christ.
“From the heart, we wish peace, God’s help, many blessings, and comfort to You, fellow archpastors, pastors, monastics, and all those who have gathered today to lovingly and devotedly greet You,” he concluded.
As reported by the UOJ, congratulations on the 11th anniversary of the UOC Primate’s enthronement were sent by the Serbian Patriarch, the Primate of the Polish Church, and the head of the Macedonian Church.]]></content:encoded><guid>https://mzk.ge/en/news/87732-rocor-head-congratulates-his-beatitude-onuphry-on-enthronement-anniversary</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Metropolitan of Montenegro greets UOC Primate on 11th anniversary of enthronement]]></title><link>https://mzk.ge/en/news/87733-metropolitan-of-montenegro-greets-uoc-primate-on-11th-anniversary-of-enthronement</link><description><![CDATA["We pray for you, support you, and wish you strength from the Lord to worthily endure all trials," wished Metropolitan Joanikije.]]></description><pubDate>Sun, 17 Aug 2025 13:17:00 +0400</pubDate><category>News</category><content:encoded><![CDATA[“In this special time of trials for the Ukrainian Orthodox Church, You have taken upon Yourself the cross of primatial service and carry it with dignity, showing the faithful an example of humility, steadfastness in faith, hope in God, and pastoral love.” This is stated in the congratulation from Metropolitan Joanikije (Micovic) of Montenegro and the Littoral to His Beatitude Metropolitan Onuphry on the eleventh anniversary of his enthronement, reports the UOC Information and Enlightenment Department.
Metropolitan Joanikije recalled the words of the Lord: "Be faithful until death, and I will give you the crown of life" (Rev. 2:10), given as a promise to everyone who faithfully labors in the Lord's field.
"We pray for you, support you, and wish you grace and strength from the Lord to worthily endure all the trials that befall the Ukrainian Orthodox Church entrusted to you," noted Metropolitan Joanikije.
The Vladyka wished that the Lord would strengthen the Primate of the UOC in health, grant wisdom and spiritual resilience, and that under his archpastoral leadership, the Church of Christ would grow in unity and piety.
As reported by the UOJ, the Primate of the UOC was congratulated on the 11th anniversary of his enthronement by the Serbian Patriarch, the Primate of the Polish Church, the head of the Macedonian Church, the Metropolitan of Eastern America and New York, the First Hierarch of the Russian Church Abroad.]]></content:encoded><guid>https://mzk.ge/en/news/87733-metropolitan-of-montenegro-greets-uoc-primate-on-11th-anniversary-of-enthronement</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Head of Macedonian Church congratulates His Beatitude on enthronement anniversary]]></title><link>https://mzk.ge/en/news/87731-head-of-macedonian-church-congratulates-his-beatitude-on-enthronement-anniversary</link><description><![CDATA["Through the prayers of the holy fathers of the Caves and all the saints, may the the Lord's grace strengthen You," reads the congratulatory message from Archbishop Stefan of Ohrid and Macedonia.]]></description><pubDate>Sun, 17 Aug 2025 13:16:00 +0400</pubDate><category>News</category><content:encoded><![CDATA[On August 17, 2025, on the eleventh anniversary of the enthronement of the Primate of the Ukrainian Orthodox Church, His Beatitude Archbishop Stefan of Ohrid and Macedonia sent congratulations to His Beatitude Onuphry. This was reported by the UOC Information and Education Department.
"On the eleventh anniversary of your enthronement as Metropolitan of Kyiv, on behalf of ourselves and the Holy Synod of Bishops of the Macedonian Orthodox Church - Ohrid Archbishopric, we send you sincere congratulations with wishes for good health," noted Archbishop Stefan.
He wished that the Lord, the Good Shepherd and Keeper of His flock, would strengthen His Beatitude with the grace of the Holy Spirit in every good and saving deed.
"Through the prayers of the holy venerable fathers of the Caves and all the saints, may His grace continually abide with Your Beatitude, granting You the necessary gifts of Christ," says the message.
The Archbishop of Ohrid and Macedonia wished Metropolitan Onuphry good health and abundant blessings from the Lord.
As reported by the UOJ, the Serbian Patriarch and the Primate of the Polish Church congratulated the Primate of the UOC on the 11th anniversary of his enthronement.]]></content:encoded><guid>https://mzk.ge/en/news/87731-head-of-macedonian-church-congratulates-his-beatitude-on-enthronement-anniversary</guid></item></channel></rss>