The state and the OCU are coordinating preparations for the 975th anniversary of the Kyiv-Pechersk Lavra

On 20 January, a working meeting was held in Kyiv to prepare for the celebration of the 975th anniversary of the Kyiv-Pechersk Lavra, which will take place in 2026. The event was attended by officials from various government agencies and the head of the OCU, Epiphanius Dumenko.

According to the State Service of Ukraine for Ethnic Policy and Freedom of Conscience (DESC), the meeting was attended by the head of the DESC, Viktor Yelensky, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Culture of Ukraine Tetiana Berezhna, and the head of the OCU, Epiphanius Dumenko. Other participants included Deputy Head of the Office of the President of Ukraine Olena Kovalskaya, Deputy Minister of Culture of Ukraine Ivan Verbytsky, Director General of the National Reserve ‘Kyiv-Pechersk Lavra’ Maxim Ostapenko, as well as an employee of the reserve and representative of the OCU in the Kyiv-Pechersk Lavra Avraam Lotyish.

The discussion focused on planning events for the upcoming anniversary of the Lavra in 2026. The parties discussed issues related to the further development and functioning of this historical and spiritual complex, emphasising the need for close cooperation between state bodies and church structures to achieve common goals.

Tetyana Berezhna particularly emphasised that it is extremely important for the Ukrainian state to ensure a balanced approach that combines religious, cultural and administrative components in the life of the Kyiv-Pechersk Lavra. ‘The Kyiv-Pechersk Lavra must continue to be a space for Ukrainian spirituality, culture and historical continuity,’ she stressed.

Following the meeting, all participants highly appreciated the constructive nature of the dialogue and expressed their readiness for further cooperation in preparing and holding anniversary events dedicated to the 975th anniversary of one of Ukraine’s greatest shrines.

We would like to remind you that we previously reported that Maksym Ostapenko, who previously held the position of Director General of the Kyiv-Pechersk Lavra National Reserve, has been reappointed to this position by the Ministry of Culture of Ukraine. His return took place after his dismissal in May 2025 and his subsequent intention to appeal the decision.