Finnish Orthodox Church Welcomes Ukrainians, Rejects UOC Outpost

OCP News Service and ort.fi – 05/05/2024

Helsinki – Finland: The Finnish Orthodox Church has opened its doors to Ukrainian refugees fleeing the war, regardless of their affiliation within the Orthodox Church in Ukraine. This comes amidst efforts by the Moscow Patriarchate-aligned Ukrainian Orthodox Church (UOC) to establish a presence in Finland.

The Finnish Orthodox Church, an autonomous body under the Ecumenical Patriarchate, launched a four-year project to integrate Ukrainians into Finnish society and local parishes. This initiative reflects Finland’s focus on inclusivity within its Orthodox community.

However, tensions arose when the UOC, which has expanded its Western European presence since the war, appointed Archimandrite Fotijn as its official representative in Finland.

Archbishop Leo, head of the Finnish Orthodox Church, emphasized Finland’s ecclesiastical autonomy and considers the UOC’s move “unsustainable and against canon law.” He instructed parishes to avoid contact with Archimandrite Fotijn and sees his efforts as detrimental to the Finnish Orthodox Church’s unity.

The Finnish Orthodox Church’s approach highlights the complexities of religious identity and the challenges of integrating refugees during wartime. While aiming to support all Ukrainians, the church remains committed to its autonomy and established structure.

Source:

OCP News Service