Verdict Against Metropolitan Jonathan Not Only Affects Him Personally But Also Sends Ripples Through the Global Orthodox Community : Catholicos-Moopan Marthoma Mathews III

OCP News Service – 31/08/2023

Kottayam – India: His Holiness Marthoma Mathews III (Catholicos-Moopan on the Apostolic Throne of St. Thomas and Malankara Metropolitan) expressed deep concern on the recent verdict against the Metropolitan Jonathan of Tulchyn and Bratslavin (Ukrainian Orthodox Church) in a statement issued on August 31st, 2023.

In the statement issued by the Catholicos-Moopan, he mentioned that as a fellow alumnus of the Leningrad Theological Academy, he is acutely aware of the spiritual commitment, dedication, and integrity that Metropolitan Jonathan brings in his pastoral duties. Catholicos said that his heart goes out to Metropolitan Jonathan who served his his flock with unwavering devotion and has been an exemplar of faith, compassion, and humility.

Catholicos Marthoma Mathews III in the statement along with the support to Metropolitan Jonathan expressed unwavering support and solidarity with His Holiness Patriarch Kirill of the Russian Orthodox Church and added “Our faith teaches us to stand united in times of adversity and to extend our hands in support to our brethren facing unjust challenges.”

Moopan concluded the letter by calling all the humanitarian international organizations to be mindful of this situation and to raise their voices against this unjust verdict that seeks to undermine the Church.

Statement :

 

Vinnytsia City Court on August 07, 2023, sentenced Metropolitan Jonathan of Tulchyn and Bratslav to 5 years in prison. The verdict was part of the continuing persecution against the Ukrainian Orthodox Church.

Source:
OCP News Service