Patriarch John of Antioch expressed concern over the so-called “persecution” faced by the Ukrainian Orthodox Church (Moscow Patriarchate), its hierarchs, and its faithful in a message sent to Metropolitan Onufriy on the occasion of the tenth anniversary of his election as head of the Church.
“We pray to Almighty God and the merciful Father to strengthen you in your blessed ministry, enlighten you, and fortify you with His grace,” Patriarch John stated in his message.
Reflecting on the difficulties faced by the Church, he continued, “When we learned about the persecution your Church is enduring, as well as the suffering borne by your Hierarchs and flock, who steadfastly uphold the purity of our faith, we were reminded of the words: ‘In fact, everyone who wants to live a godly life in Christ Jesus will be persecuted’ (II Tim. 3:12).”
He concluded by emphasizing the solidarity of the Church of Antioch, praying to the Lord “to bring peace to your country, to wipe away the tears from the eyes of your people, and to preserve unity within your Church.”
In addition to Patriarch John of Antioch, Patriarch Ilia of Georgia and Patriarch Daniel of Bulgaria also sent letters of congratulations to Metropolitan Onufriy, acknowledging him as the “canonical Primate” of Ukraine.
