If we were not awaiting Patriarch Bartholomew's arrival to celebrate the 30th anniversary of independence, then perhaps the UOC-MP would have refused the procession at such an epidemiologically unfavorable moment.
This opinion was expressed by religious publicist Kateryna Shchotkina in a comment to Radio Liberty, reports Channel 33 News.
At the same time, she stressed that representatives of the UOC-MP understand that the visit will still take place.
“I don't think it's in their power. Maybe they would like to, but they are aware that he will come. Religious processions, delegations, and demonstrations are attempts to remind them that they have their own interests and make sure that their interests are taken into account. Bartholomew knows perfectly well that there are people here who want to see him, he has an invitation from the head of state. He has every reason to be sure that he will have a warm welcome here,” the expert noted.
But in such a difficult time of Ukraine's existence, when there is a war in the East and children of Ukraine are dying for independence, the demarche of the MP and the statement of the leadership that they will not celebrate this date looks like treason.
There is hope that the supporters of such a policy of the Moscow Patriarchate of sound judgement will draw conclusions. Because it is obvious that not honoring the Fallen Heroes, which was demonstrated by the leaders of the MP at the celebrations earlier and now, indicates the marginalization of this wing of Christianity.