Failed Attempt to Seize the Holy Spirit Cathedral of the UOC in Chernivtsi: Faithful Defend Their Church

On June 17, 2025, an attempted violent takeover of the Holy Spirit Cathedral of the Ukrainian Orthodox Church in Chernivtsi was carried out by raiders allegedly affiliated with the Orthodox Church of Ukraine (OCU). According to reports from parishioners and representatives of the Chernivtsi-Bukovyna Diocese, around 50 individuals wearing balaclavas and sportswear blocked all entrances to the cathedral. Eyewitnesses claim that the attackers used physical force against the faithful and deployed tear gas. One video from the scene shows a bloodied hand of one of the victims. The incident was covered by the Telegram channel “First Cossack.”

During the confrontation, Metropolitan Meletiy of Chernivtsi and Bukovyna was injured — tear gas was sprayed directly into his face, temporarily rendering him unable to walk. Several parishioners were also injured, with five of them seeking medical assistance.

Despite the use of force, faithful members of the UOC quickly gathered at the cathedral and managed to defend their holy site. The attempted seizure failed, and the attackers were forced to leave the church grounds. Accompanied by chants of “Shame!”, the raiders passed through a corridor formed by the faithful, covering their faces from cameras, and boarded police vans.

Shortly afterward, the believers entered the cathedral and held a thanksgiving prayer service led by Metropolitan Meletiy.

The incident sparked significant public outcry and concern over the apparent inaction of law enforcement. Representatives of the UOC view the event as yet another attempt at violent church takeover by supporters of the OCU.

It should also be noted that Orest Dragynda, a former cleric of the Chernivtsi-Bukovyna Diocese of the Ukrainian Orthodox Church who recently joined the OCU along with his parish, spoke about his decision. Dragynda stated that in the OCU he feels “inner peace,” and that the clergy there appear to him “cheerful and approachable.”