Clergy Deferrals: Metropolitan Boholep Urges Calm and a Legal Approach

On June 5, 2025, the State Service of Ukraine for Ethnopolitics and Freedom of Conscience published Decree No. 80/11, listing religious organizations recognized as critically important. The list did not include any communities affiliated with the Ukrainian Orthodox Church, including those under the jurisdiction of the Oleksandriia Diocese. This raised concern among clergy members, who turned to Metropolitan of Oleksandriia and Svitlovodsk Boholep for comment.

In his statement, the hierarch called on clergy and the faithful to remain calm and avoid panic. He emphasized that the deferral procedure is not yet complete and that specific rules and documentation processes are still to be finalized. Given this, he noted that emotional responses at this stage are premature and inappropriate.

Metropolitan Boholep stressed that only by adhering to current legislation, regulations, and official procedures can the interests of the church community be effectively defended: “As law-abiding citizens of our country, we have the right to demand and defend our rights and interests, regardless of whether we are ordained or monastics.” He also noted that feelings of being overlooked or excluded from the process should not lead to conflict or protest, but rather require composure, prudence, and respect for the law.

In conclusion, the Metropolitan assured that no clergy member would be neglected and that the church community remains united and ready to continue its service for the benefit of the people, the Church, and the state.

It is worth noting that the Command of Ukraine’s Ground Forces also responded to reports about the deferral of mobilization for clergy. The Armed Forces emphasized their respect for the clergy’s right to postponement, but clarified that this must occur strictly within the framework of prior guidance issued by the State Service of Ukraine for Ethnopolitics and Freedom of Conscience.