Metropolitan Anthony of Boryspil and Brovary, who manages the affairs of the UOC, reminded the clergy and believers that the Church is primarily a community of people, and not church walls, and called on bishops to serve people, support communities, and all believers to fight for their shrines.

“In these difficult times, when churches are taken away from us, when we are driven out into the street, when priests and parishioners are insulted, it is important to understand why we are allowed to do this,” he said.

According to the hierarch, “The Lord allows churches to be taken away from us in order to show that His Church is not within the walls. The Lord began His ministry by gathering the apostles. He was not constantly in any particular place, but I went and preached and talked with people.”

The bishop noted that churches can be taken away, but communities of people united by faith in Christ cannot be destroyed, it is impossible to wrest faith from people. He emphasized that now it is especially important for the episcopate and priests to help ordinary believers and support them.

“We must be close to them, form strong church communities, focus on the development of an active church life. Christianity is first of all a community. Therefore, serving people should come first. If we keep faith in the hearts of our people, the Lord will return churches to us” – said the bishop.

“Today I appeal to the pastors and faithful children of our suffering Church: defend your churches by all possible legal means. If all legal methods are exhausted and you still have to leave the church, the main thing is not to leave people,” urged Metropolitan Anthony.