“We will claim these shrines,” - Dumenko about the churches of the UOC in Chernihiv

On November 22, 2024, the head of the OCU Epiphany Dumenko visited Chernihiv, where he visited the Transfiguration and Holy Trinity Cathedrals of Chernihiv, which were taken away by the state from the Chernihiv Diocese of the Ukrainian Orthodox Church and turned into museums. Dumenko said that the OCU will claim these churches, despite the fact that the Historical and Architectural Reserve “Chernihiv Ancient” has repeatedly reported that the transfer of the cathedrals taken from the UOC to religious organizations. This is reported by Suspilne.Chernihiv.

“Now there is a relevant law stating that religious buildings, the church has the right to receive free use, that is, rent, and of course, we will claim in the future those shrines that are now being rid of the “Russian world”. This is a temple and prayer should be carried out in it,” – said the head of the OCU.

In turn, the director of the Chernihiv Ancient Reserve, Natalia Rebrova, said that currently the issue of leasing the selected churches to any religious association is not in principle.

“At present, the issue of transferring the Transfiguration Cathedral for use until all its main problems are resolved is not raised at all. The Orthodox Church of Ukraine shares our opinion on the Transfiguration Cathedral. And it is our partner in bringing this unique millennial monument into proper condition,” – Rebrova said.

As reported, on June 28, 2024, the “opening” of the museum of the ancient Transfiguration Cathedral of Chernihiv, which was taken over from the Chernihiv Diocese of the Ukrainian Orthodox Church in October 2023, took place. It is reported that from now on, the entrance to the church will be paid, and there are no plans to hold services there anymore.