Authorities organized another social event at the Transfiguration Cathedral in Chernihiv

At the Spassky Cathedral in Chernihiv—which had previously been taken away from the Ukrainian Orthodox Church—another secular event took place, drawing sharp criticism from the faithful. Instead of the traditional memorial service for the deceased medical workers, the authorities organized a concert in the cathedral, featuring musicians playing guitars right next to the altar.

A video recording of the event, held to mark the Day of Remembrance for Ukraine’s Fallen Medical Workers, sparked a public outcry. Believers expressed bewilderment and outrage that the ancient shrine was being used as a concert venue for secular performances rather than for its intended purpose.

It should be recalled that in October 2023, the Transfiguration, Trinity, and Dormition Cathedrals were seized from the Chernihiv Diocese of the Ukrainian Orthodox Church by representatives of the Ministry of Culture, with the support of armed men. The official pretext was “urgent restoration,” yet the churches were sealed off and closed to parishioners even before the legal proceedings were concluded.