Archbishop Michael of Prague is hospitalized but continues in office

Archbishop Michael of Prague (of the Orthodox Church of the Czech Lands and Slovakia), has been hospitalized due to complications associated with long-term treatment for diabetes. Despite this, the 79-year-old hierarch continues to fully fulfill his duties, and the Prague Diocese has called on the faithful to pray for his speedy recovery and strength.

The Prague Diocese of the Orthodox Church of the Czech Lands and Slovakia announced the hospitalization of its head on Sunday, February 17, 2026. It is noted that His Eminence Archbishop Michael of Prague, who is 79 years old, continues to carry out his duties as usual, despite his stay in the hospital.

All necessary information is regularly communicated to him by the staff of the Diocesan Chancery and his work schedule is maintained without any restrictions. The Archdiocese has asked the flock to remember Archbishop Michael in their prayers and ask for his speedy recovery and the bestowal of strength at this time.

Recall, earlier in the Czech Republic scandal broke out around the Orthodox Church of the Czech Lands and Slovakia (OOCCS). In a closed presentation at the Academy of Sciences of the Czech Republic, and later in a Czech media publication, the Church was presented as a threat to national security, the economy, and even potentially criminal activity. Accusations linking the CZECH to a «pro-Russian threat» were made without providing concrete evidence, which provoked a strong reaction from Church representatives.