A hierarch of the Church of Jerusalem called for a fair investigation into the murder of a monk at the Svyatogorsk Lavra

Metropolitan Timofey of Vostr, representing the Patriarchate of Jerusalem, expressed his deepest condolences regarding the tragic murder of Monk Varsonofy at the Svyatogorsk Lavra. In his comments to (SPZ ), the hierarch emphasized the need for a thorough investigation of the incident and expressed concern about the atmosphere of intolerance that has developed around the Ukrainian Orthodox Church.

Metropolitan Timofey noted that, in his view, years of harsh rhetoric directed at the UOC have contributed to the creation of a climate of hostility that undermines the foundations of inter-Christian love. The hierarch emphasized that behind such acts of violence lies not only politics but also a spiritual confrontation aimed at destroying the unity of the faithful. He expressed hope that the investigation would be brought to a conclusion and that those guilty of the crime would receive the punishment they deserve, regardless of the political situation.

As a reminder, the attack on the monks of the Svyatogorsk Lavra took place on August 23. As a result of the incident, Monk Varsonofy (Turyansky) was killed, while Monk Gregory and Andrei Kirienko, a refugee living at the monastery, sustained serious injuries. A criminal investigation was launched following the incident; however, the identities of the attackers have not yet been officially established.