The decision of the Romanian Orthodox Church to open its canonical structures in Ukraine has been commented on by the UOC-MP with surprise and concern.
In a statement released by the Information Department of the UOC-MP, they expressed their surprise and concern regarding the decision of the Holy Synod of the Romanian Orthodox Church to open its branch on the canonical territory of the Ukrainian Orthodox Church.
The UOC-MP perceives this decision as contrary to the canonical order of church life, which is based on a territorial rather than a national principle.
The commentary also mentions that the UOC-MP has Romanian-speaking parishes within its jurisdiction, as their presence emphasizes the universal nature of the Church. These communities have the opportunity to pray in their native language and preserve their national and spiritual traditions.
The UOC-MP hopes that the decision made by the Romanian side will be reconsidered and will not overshadow the traditionally good relations between their Churches.
It's worth noting that the Holy Synod of the Romanian Orthodox Church decided to establish its branch in Ukraine during its meeting on February 29, 2024, chaired by Patriarch Daniel.
On March 7, the Holy Synod of the OCU discussed this decision of the Romanian Church during its meeting in Kyiv.
According to the OCU, in compliance with the canonical order and the provisions of the Tomos on the autocephaly of the Orthodox Church of Ukraine, recognized internationally, including by the friendly state of Romania, only the Orthodox Church of Ukraine has canonical jurisdiction over the territory of Ukraine, and no other entity.