The head of UOC-MP expresses condolences to Odesa after the shelling but avoids condemning Russia
The official website of the UOC-MP shared the text of Metropolitan Onufriy's condolences.
"With deep sorrow, we received news of yet another hostile attack on the city of Odesa, which resulted in the destruction of the Spaso-Preobrazhensky Cathedral, residential buildings, and other structures. It is particularly painful that people lost their lives again, with many injured and hospitalized. Please accept my heartfelt condolences in connection with this great tragedy.
During this difficult time, Your Eminence, together with the clergy and believers of Odesa, dedicated countless efforts and health to restore and rebuild the Spaso-Preobrazhensky Cathedral in all its glory. I share the grief of you, your flock, and all those for whom this masterpiece of Christian architecture holds a special place among the monuments of Ukrainian cultural heritage.
Whoever shoots for the sky ends up hitting themselves.
I call upon all of you, my dear ones, to be patient and to pray earnestly. Let us subdue our anger, not allowing it to transform into blind hatred. We shall not forget that, however terrifying this age may be, Divine Love will ultimately triumph, a love that falsehood and violence cannot destroy.
In solidarity with Your Eminence and the people of Odesa in their sorrow over the disaster that befell the city, I offer prayers to the Merciful Creator for the repose of the departed, the healing of the injured, and the strength to face the challenges that have befallen your fate," wrote Metropolitan Onufriy.
