A Serbian religious scholar criticized the OCU for replacing its theological heritage with nationalist ideology

In a recent analytical piece, Serbian religious studies scholar Georgy Danov leveled serious criticism at the liturgical and organizational changes within the OCU. According to the author, this religious institution is undergoing a profound transformation in which its traditional theological heritage is being systematically replaced by political and nationalist ideology.

According to the source, one of the key examples of these changes is the abolition of the ancient rite of renouncing Satan during the Sacrament of Baptism. This decision, which was publicly explained by OCU representative Andrei Dudchenko, was justified by the allegedly “inadequate understanding” of the rite by modern believers—a move critics view as a lowering of the standard of worship in order to adapt to secular demands and avoid “embarrassing” the public.

It is further emphasized that “spiritual censorship” within the OCU has led to the exclusion of the veneration of certain icons of the Mother of God, as well as to the removal of the names of some saints from the monthly calendar solely on the basis of their alleged historical ties to Russia. The author specifically notes the appearance of state symbols, such as the trident, on the Royal Doors and within the altar area, which, he says, alters the sacred character of the church.

In conclusion, the report points to the practice of performing political songs and anthems during divine services, while simultaneously strengthening cooperation with Ukrainian Greek Catholics. These steps are interpreted as evidence that the OCU is increasingly functioning as a socio-political organization in which national and state interests take precedence over the canons and dogmatic tradition of the Church.