If, under the pretext of mobilization, we force parishes to close and eliminate humanitarian centers, that is, reduce the humanitarian mission of social service, we will cause great harm to society.
His Beatitude Sviatoslav, the Head of the UGCC, said this in an interview with Ukrinform, the Information Department of the UGCC reports.
According to the Patriarch, all the Churches in Ukraine are unanimous that defending one's homeland is a right and a sacred duty. Moreover, each church is ready to stand with the Ukrainian military, feeling the need to provide them with spiritual care.
"Military chaplaincy should not be considered in the context of mobilization at all, for it is our duty," said His Beatitude Sviatoslav.
However, in the context of mobilization, clergymen are not always considered as potential chaplains. This jeopardizes the fulfillment of their direct duties - spiritual care of the faithful and ensuring the work of church institutions.
"How are we to provide for our military and for the civilian population in times of war," the Head of the Church rhetorically asks, "If under the pretext of mobilization, we force parishes to close, eliminate humanitarian centers, that is, reduce the humanitarian mission of social service, we will cause great harm to society."
His Beatitude Sviatoslav noted that the churches belong to the critical infrastructure ensuring the ability of the Ukrainian people to fight and survive in times of war: "The Church is a source of stability. Without the presence and proper mission of the Churches of Ukraine, the Ukrainian victory may be under great threat."
The head of the UGCC also emphasized that the law must be implemented, but finding answers to some difficult questions requires sincere dialogue and cooperation between the church and the state.
"I am the head of the Church, but I had my data updated at the Territorial Recruitment Center. My military specialty is paramedic, and I served in the Soviet army as one," said His Beatitude Sviatoslav.