Novynskyi: Any country would dream of having a citizen like His Beatitude
The Protodeacon of the UOC emphasized that Metropolitan Onuphry disturbs the state but is loved by the people.
Protodeacon of the Ukrainian Orthodox Church Vadym Novynskyi published on his website a congratulation on the feast of the Nativity of the Holy Prophet, Forerunner, and Baptist of the Lord John, where he defended His Beatitude Onuphry.
"The Ukrainian Orthodox Church, remaining faithful to Christ and the holy canons of Orthodoxy, is undergoing severe trials: barbaric seizures of churches, a flood of slander, persecution of the clergy, and pressure on the hierarchs and the Primate," noted the protodeacon.
He expressed regret that "it is precisely such people as His Beatitude Metropolitan Onuphry – those who strive for a holy life, who call only for peace and love, who speak only God's truth – are today not needed by the state of Ukraine».
The protodeacon critically assessed the situation in the country, where «law enforcement agencies are ready to fuss over a small group with so-called non-traditional orientation while beating elderly women and priests who have stood by thousands to defend their ancestral shrines".
"Any other self-respecting country would dream of having such a citizen as His Beatitude Metropolitan Onuphry. Yes, in a country where the Constitution is "put on pause", one can arbitrarily take away a person's passport, but it is impossible to take away the nationwide love and respect that our Primate undoubtedly possesses," stated Fr. Vadym.
Concluding the greeting, the protodeacon wished all believers peace, the Church – steadfastness, archpastors – wisdom, priests – courage, and everyone – a pure heart and firm confession of faith.
Earlier, the UOJ wrote that, according to Fr. Vadym Novynskyi, the authorities have a plan to subjugate the UOC without His Beatitude.
