WCC NEWS: WCC concerned over Dormition Kiev Caves Lavra, reiterates calls for peace

World Council of Churches (WCC) general secretary Rev. Prof. Dr Jerry Pillay expressed concern and sadness upon hearing about alleged actions taken against the Ukrainian Orthodox Church (UOC) against the background of the Russian invasion of Ukraine. During a recent solidarity visit to Ukraine, the World Council of Churches delegation visited Kyiv-Pechersk Lavra, monastery and cave complex, one of the largest such historical and cultural preserves in Eastern Europe. Photo: Ivars Kupcis/WCC 17 March 2023 “It is unfortunate that such actions – including with regard to the UOC’s monastic community of the ancient Dormition Kiev Caves Lavra – appear to target the church itself,” said Pillay. “The actions being taken against the UOC do appear to raise genuine questions with regard to respect for freedom of religion or belief.” Pillay further noted that, while the WCC has condemned the Russian invasion of the sovereign nation of Ukraine, the WCC also emphasizes the importance of protecting the presence and witness of the church wherever it is found.  “The WCC will monitor this situation closely, and respond appropriately in accordance with the principles of international human rights law and the protection of religious freedom,” said Pillay. “In the meantime, the WCC continues to encourage dialogue for peace, including among its member churches and ecumenical partners in Russia, Ukraine, and around the world.” Pillay reiterated the belief that Christian leaders can and must bring light, hope, and healing to the tragic context. "Thus, we plan to convene a roundtable with church leaders from the respective countries, in the near future, with the latter objectives in mind,” he said. “May the God of love and peace guard and guide us during these difficult times as we pray for Christ’s love to move us to justice, peace, reconciliation, and unity,” he said. Read the full statement See more

The World Council of Churches promotes Christian unity in faith, witness and service for a just and peaceful world. An ecumenical fellowship of churches founded in 1948, today the WCC brings together 352 Protestant, Orthodox, Anglican and other churches representing more than 580 million Christians in over 120 countries, and works cooperatively with the Roman Catholic Church. The WCC general secretary is Rev. Prof. Dr Jerry Pillay from the Uniting Presbyterian Church in Southern Africa. Media contact: +41 79 507 6363; www.oikoumene.org/press Our visiting address is: World Council of Churches 150 route de Ferney Geneve 2 1211 Switzerland