In Chernivtsi, the forced eviction of the UOC congregation from the Holy Spirit Cathedral has been announced

The authorities in Chernivtsi have officially announced the forced seizure of the Holy Spirit Cathedral, which belongs to the Ukrainian Orthodox Church (UOC), with the aim of subsequently transferring it to supporters of the OCU. The eviction is scheduled for September 10, based on a ruling by the state enforcement officer.

Enforcement proceeding No. 81531987, initiated by an order of the Chernivtsi Regional Economic Court ( ), entails the transfer not only of the cathedral building itself, located at 85 Glavna Street, but also of all adjacent infrastructure, including a hotel complex and a boiler room. To ensure compliance with the court’s decision, the National Police of Ukraine are expected to be deployed for the operation.

In response to the authorities’ actions, the cathedral’s congregation has called on the faithful to protect the holy site. Parishioners emphasize that for many years, the church has been maintained and repaired exclusively through their voluntary donations. Believers fear a repeat of the violent scenario similar to the events of June 17, 2025, when an attempt to seize the cathedral was accompanied by clashes and the use of special measures—including tear gas—against the clergy and parishioners.

To offer prayers of support and to protect the church, the faithful intend to gather outside the cathedral on the evening of September 9. On the night before the expected forced eviction, the clergy plans to hold a night service within the walls of the sanctuary.