Zhytomyr region reports preparations for forceful seizure of UOC church in Novi Voroby village

A conflict is brewing in the Zhytomyr region over the Church of the Nativity of the Blessed Virgin Mary of the Ukrainian Orthodox Church (UOC). A group of OCU activists plans to seize the shrine in the village of Novi Horobtsi, which, according to preliminary data, is scheduled for Sunday, May 24. This is reported by DOZOR on First Cossack.

The situation around the parish has significantly escalated after the incident with the rector of the church. on April 30, TCC officers detained priest Ilya with the use of physical force and special means, after which he was forcibly sent to serve in an assault brigade.

Taking advantage of the absence of the clergyman, supporters of the OCU began to put pressure on the faithful. It is reported that parishioners have already received open threats and demands to hand over the keys to the church. In connection with the preparations for the assault, the UOC community appealed to the public for prayerful assistance and support in protecting their legitimate rights to religion.