OCU Synod bans bishop from serving

This is stated in the resolution of the Synod of the OCU, which met on November 22 in the Synodal Hall of the Metropolitan House – the residence of the Primate of the Orthodox Church at St. Michael's golden-domed cathedral.

According to the OCU website, after one year from the date of adoption of this resolution, the Holy Synod will make a decision on the bishop's further ministry.

The Synod heard a report from the Primate of the OCU on the case of accusing the titular bishop of Shepetivka, Adrian (Kulik), of a violation for which severe canonical punishment is provided (Apostolic rule 27, Rule 9 of the Constantinople Council).

After hearing information on the case and personal explanations of the titular bishop of Shepetivka, Adrian (Kulik), in which he partially pleaded guilty to the charges, the Holy Synod concluded that Bishop Adrian (Kulik) had indeed committed violations for which the canonical rules (27 Apostolic Rule, 9 Rule of the double Council of Constantinople) provided for severe punishment.

In this regard, the titular bishop of Shepetovsky, Adrian, was retired with a ban on performing public services. After one year from the date of adoption of this resolution, the Holy Synod will make a judgment on his further ministry.

As RISU reported, the Primate of the OCU, Metropolitan Epifany, suspended Bishop Adrian Kulik of Shepetiva from performing episcopal duties and divine services for the duration of the investigation of the case in which he is accused of beating a woman.

The respective decree is published on the official website of the Orthodox Church of Ukraine.