Metropolitan Eulogiy (Hutchenko) of the Eparchy of Sumy and Okhtyrka of the UOC-MP appealed to the clergy of the eparchy on February 27, asking for prayers for himself. He informed about the accusations made against him based on his sermon allegedly in defense of the UOC-MP.
The appeal was published by the press service of the Eparchy of Sumy, as reported by the Information Department of the UOC-MP.
Metropolitan Eulogiy explained that the basis for the accusations was his sermon, in which he "expressed support for our Ukrainian Orthodox Church and the fallacy of the religious policy against our Church and its faithful children, which we all witness."
The hierarch believes that the accusations have no real basis. "Today, when false accusations flow like a river, and with each passing day, the number of threats increases and the situation escalates, my soul and heart turn to God, seeking comfort and strength in Him. My episcopal conscience does not allow me to succumb to these attacks and admit guilt for actions I did not commit. I believe that God's truth will prevail, but for this, I need your support and prayerful assistance," the appeal said.
He asked the parishioners to strengthen their prayers to the Lord "so that He strengthens my faith, spiritual strength, and grants wisdom not to make mistakes in this trial."
On February 29, the SBU press service reported that according to the investigation, the cleric offended the religious feelings of believers of other faiths during his sermons and in video recordings on his social media pages.
An expertise initiated by the Security Service confirmed the facts of unlawful actions by the suspect.
Based on the evidence obtained, he was informed of suspicion under Part 1 of Article 161 of the Criminal Code of Ukraine (violation of equality of citizens depending on their religious beliefs).