Former “Patriarch” Filaret reposed in the Lord on March 20, 2026, and was buried on March 22 at the St. Volodymyr’s Cathedral in Kyiv, in accordance with his will, where he had served for more than six decades.
On behalf of Epifaniy of Kyiv, the Press Service of the Kyiv Metropolis of the Orthodox Church of Ukraine expressed heartfelt gratitude to all who conveyed condolences. The faithful were called to offer intensified prayers during the first forty days after his repose, in keeping with Orthodox tradition. It was also announced that a gravestone will soon be installed, followed later by a memorial monument.
Ecclesiastical Clarifications on Church Structure
The statement recalled that, following decisions of the Unification Council on December 15, 2018, the structures of the Ukrainian Autocephalous Orthodox Church and the Kyiv Patriarchate ceased to exist independently and were fully integrated into the Orthodox Church of Ukraine, which received the Tomos of autocephaly on January 6, 2019.
It emphasized that the names and legal identity of the former structures now belong exclusively to the Orthodox Church of Ukraine and cannot be used by any external groups. The Kyiv Metropolis remains the sole canonical and legal successor.
Status of the Kyiv Patriarchate After Filaret
While acknowledging differences with Patriarch Filaret regarding the separate existence of the Kyiv Patriarchate, the Church noted that he was granted lifelong use of the Patriarchal residence and the right to serve at St. Volodymyr’s Cathedral as a sign of respect for his contributions.
Following his repose, the Patriarchal residence has passed under the direct administration of the Kyiv Metropolis and will be used as an official facility. Plans include the creation of a memorial exhibition dedicated to his life and service.
Clergy and Institutional Continuity
All clergy of St. Volodymyr’s Cathedral have been confirmed in their roles within the Orthodox Church of Ukraine. The cathedral, together with St. Michael’s Golden-Domed Monastery, will continue to serve as a cathedral of the Primate.
Additionally, clergy and communities previously under Filaret’s leadership have already affirmed their belonging to the Orthodox Church of Ukraine, with the possibility remaining open for others to do the same.
Rejection of Claims About the Kyiv Patriarchate
The Kyiv Metropolis firmly stated that no separate religious entity called the “Ukrainian Orthodox Church – Kyiv Patriarchate” exists. Any such claims are considered canonically and legally invalid and subject to ecclesiastical judgment.
It was also clarified that, according to the statute of the former Kyiv Patriarchate, no individual can declare themselves Patriarch without election by a Local Council. Individuals making such claims are not recognized as bishops or clergy.
Concerns Over External Influence
The statement further alleged that certain individuals promoting unauthorized claims are linked to external influences, including Russian interests. It noted that such actions are widely disseminated by media connected to the Russian Orthodox Church and may constitute a coordinated effort to destabilize church unity in Ukraine.
Concluding, the Kyiv Metropolis stressed that these developments raise serious concerns and require both legal evaluation and public awareness, reaffirming its commitment to ecclesiastical unity and canonical order.
Source and photo: posmina.info
