Metropolitan Anthony spoke about the reasons behind the persecution of the Church

Metropolitan Anthony, Administrator of the Ukrainian Orthodox Church, (Pakanich), spoke about the root causes of the persecution of the Church, emphasizing that such actions by the state always indicate its attempt to replace God and establish total control over a person’s inner world.

As notes, when the state seeks to regulate not only the external behavior of its citizens but also their religious beliefs, it inevitably faces a lack of legitimate means of influence. As a result, the authorities resort to repressive methods, which compels believers to undertake acts of martyrdom.

As a historical example of state interference in church affairs, the author cites the era of iconoclasm and the reign of Emperor Constantine V. Although the emperor possessed considerable authority, his attempt to confer pan-ecclesiastical status on heretical views by convening a large-scale assembly in 754 was not successful in the long run. Although outwardly this “council” surpassed many genuine Ecumenical Councils in terms of the number of participants, it has been remembered in history as a “false council” and a heretical assembly.

In conclusion, Metropolitan Anthony calls on the faithful to draw strength from the prayers of the Fathers of the Seventh Ecumenical Council, so that they may steadfastly defend the canonical order and unity of the Church, remaining worthy successors to the feat of God’s holy servants.

As a reminder, earlier in his new publication, Metropolitan Luke (Kovalenko) of Zaporizhzhia and Melitopol reflects on the Christian duty to pray for those in authority, especially during periods when those in authority are hostile toward the Church. His Eminence emphasizes that the Christian attitude toward government leaders should be based not on political submission or fear, but on the sincere love commanded by the Apostle Paul.