US Secretary of State's Statement of Condolence
US Secretary of State Marco Rubio has issued a statement expressing his condolences following the death of Patriarch Filaret, the Honorary Patriarch of Kyiv and All Rus-Ukraine. In his statement, released on March 21, Rubio noted that
"we mourn the loss of His Holiness Patriarch Filaret"and emphasized that
"his legacy will live on in the strength of Ukraine's religious and national life."Filaret was a pivotal and often controversial figure in the establishment of an independent Ukrainian Orthodox Church.
Patriarch Filaret's Final Days and Funeral Arrangements
Patriarch Filaret passed away after a severe illness. He was hospitalized on March 9 due to a deterioration in his health. A public farewell ceremony began on the evening of March 20 and continued throughout the day on March 21. The service was held at the St. Michael's Golden-Domed Cathedral, where Metropolitan Epiphanius conducted a litia.
The funeral and burial rites for Patriarch Filaret are scheduled for Sunday, March 22, at the St. Volodymyr's Cathedral, where he will also be interred. Police have cordoned off the cathedral to maintain order during the ceremonies. The day after Filaret's death, seven bishops of the Ukrainian Orthodox Church of the Kyivan Patriarchate announced the election of a new patriarch—Archbishop of Sumy, Nikodim. The vote was conducted online.
It is noted that Filaret left a spiritual testament specifying his final resting place to be St. Volodymyr's Cathedral. Patriarch Filaret celebrated his 97th birthday on January 23, 2026.
The death of Patriarch Filaret is a significant event not only for the religious community but for Ukrainian society as a whole. His activities and influence on the development of Orthodoxy in Ukraine have left a profound mark on the country's history. The election of a new patriarch indicates the continuation of traditions and the church's adaptation to modern conditions, which may influence the further development of religious life in Ukraine.
The passing of Patriarch Filaret has prompted reflections on his profound impact on Ukraine's path to independence. As leaders from various sectors evaluate his contributions, former presidents have shared their insights on how his leadership shaped the national identity and religious landscape of the country.