Patriarch Sviatoslav: UGCC Will Not Support Anyone During Elections

During a visit to the eastern Ukrainian city of Cherkasy, Patriarch Sviatoslav stated that the Ukrainian Greek Catholic Church is taking measures so that the church is not used by any political party for political purpses, Gazeta. ua reported.

“They ask me today why the construction of the patriarchal cathedral in Kyiv is taking so long. They say we still cannot complete the construction even though so many elections have passed. This example shows that we do not want to take sides with any political force,” said the head of UGCC as he explained why the construction has not been completed.

He also gave the example of Jesus Christ who did not take sides with Pilate who represented the Roman invasion forces or with Barabbas representing the Jewish national liberation movement.

“Jesus did not take sides with any of them. He died on the cross. Therefore, in order to remain itself and not be reduced to any political group, the church should always be on the side of the Crucified One and not of Pilate or Barabbas. Then, it will always have the possibility and power to tell the truth to everyone at all times and to be free from the politicization of the society,” said Patriarch Sviatoslav.