Episcopal Panagia with relics stolen by schismatics in bloody church seizure

Cherkasy, Cherkasy Province, Ukraine, December 12, 2024

Photo: Cherkasy Diocese Photo: Cherkasy Diocese Ukrainian schismatics stole a unique episcopal medallion containing the relics of a number of saints when they violently seized and looted the canonical Archangel Michael Cathedral in Cherkasy in October.

Supporters of the schismatic “Orthodox Church of Ukraine” have been violently seizing Orthodox churches ever since that structure’s creation in 2018.

On October 17, one of the bloodiest takeovers took place, when the schismatics seized the Archangel Michael Cathedral and violently attacked His Eminence Metropolitan Theodosy, as well as Orthodox clergy and parishioners. The sad incident has also become one of the most publicized. The hierarch had to be treated in the hospital after the attack.

The OCU representatives, who enjoy the support of Patriarch Bartholomew of Constantinople, also looted personal and ecclesiastical items from the cathedral, including an episcopal Panagia containing the relics of four Cherkasy saints, the diocese announced on Sunday.

“If anyone happens to see this Panagia being worn by any OCU representative, or if it is being sold somewhere, please immediately report this to the police and the Cherkasy Diocese of the UOC (Ukrainian Orthodox Church),” the diocese calls.

Before and after the cathedral’s seizure by schismatics. Photo: Cherkasy Diocese Before and after the cathedral’s seizure by schismatics. Photo: Cherkasy Diocese     

Meanwhile, the cathedral, which was once full of Orthodox faithful during the Divine services, stands almost completely empty since its seizure by the OCU.

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12/12/2024

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