Belarusian President Emphasizes Cooperation with Orthodox Church Amidst Global Challenges

OCP News Service – 15/03/2024

Minsk-Belarus: In a meeting with Belarusian synod held on March 14,2024, Belarusian President Aleksandr Lukashenko underscored the profound collaboration between the state and the Orthodox Church, highlighting the integral role played by the Church in the nation’s history and identity.

Addressing the Synod of the Belarusian Orthodox Church, President Lukashenko expressed gratitude to Metropolitan Veniamin of Minsk and Zaslavl, Patriarchal Exarch of All Belarus, for the invitation to participate in the deliberations.

Acknowledging the deep-rooted connection between Orthodoxy and Belarusian statehood, President Lukashenko praised the enduring spiritual legacy of the nation’s ancestors, emphasizing the shared values and common goals that unite the government and the Orthodox Church.

Amidst the backdrop of global turmoil and religious strife, President Lukashenko lamented the challenges facing Orthodoxy worldwide, particularly citing the unrest in Ukraine and the Holy Land. He condemned the persecution of clergy and the desecration of sacred sites, emphasizing the importance of safeguarding religious freedom and fostering interfaith dialogue.

Highlighting the stability of religious relations within Belarus, President Lukashenko emphasized the nation’s commitment to religious tolerance and mutual respect. Despite external pressures and ideological conflicts, Belarusian society remains steadfast in its values and traditions.

President Lukashenko also addressed the evolving social landscape, noting the impact of technological advancement and the proliferation of disruptive ideologies. He warned against the dangers of moral relativism and societal decay, calling for a renewed focus on traditional values and spiritual guidance.

In response to the challenges of modernity, President Lukashenko called upon the Orthodox Church to adapt its message to resonate with contemporary audiences, emphasizing the importance of pastoral care and outreach. He commended the Orthodox hierarchs for their esteemed leadership and urged them to continue guiding Belarusian society with wisdom and compassion.

The meeting between President Lukashenko and the Synod of the Belarusian Orthodox Church serves as a testament to the enduring partnership between the state and the Church, reaffirming their shared commitment to national unity, religious freedom, and social harmony in Belarus.

Source:

OCP News Service