Metropolitan Pavlo Speaks Out After Damage to Kyiv Pechersk Lavra
Following a Russian strike that caused destruction at the historic site, Metropolitan Pavlo (Lebid) of the Ukrainian Orthodox Church (Moscow Patriarchate) and former abbot of the Kyiv Pechersk Lavra issued a statement. In a video posted on his YouTube channel, he argued that the devastation of churches is the work of the devil. Pavlo (Lebid) stated,
“It is a tragedy when temples are destroyed in any Local Church. People who think they are doing this—it is actually the devil, who has abandoned Christ, His Church, and the faithful for a time.”
Current State of the Kyiv Pechersk Lavra
On the night of June 15, the Kyiv Pechersk Lavra suffered significant damage during an attack on the capital. A fire broke out on the roof of the Dormition Cathedral. Metropolitan Pavlo (Lebid) also commented on the monastery's condition, noting that “today, the Lavra is filled with emptiness, desolation, and decay.” He emphasized that the monastic brotherhood is being expelled, churches are being closed, and inside them, “people are dancing, filming all sorts of inappropriate clips, frying food, and steaming.”
Furthermore, the metropolitan stressed that
“we should not complain, because the desolation and abandonment in the temple are thanks to those who wage war against the Church.”He urged the faithful to remain in the monastery, to pray, and to guard their faith, saying, “Do not go anywhere.” It is also worth noting that Pavlo (Lebid) is a defendant in several ongoing criminal cases, and court proceedings are still underway.
This statement by Metropolitan Pavlo (Lebid) reflects the deep concerns of believers over the destruction of cultural and religious landmarks amid the war in Ukraine. The Kyiv Pechersk Lavra is a major spiritual center, and its damage has caused alarm not only among supporters of the Ukrainian Orthodox Church (Moscow Patriarchate) but also in the broader context of preserving Ukraine's cultural heritage. The metropolitan's reaction highlights the tense situation facing the church and may influence future attitudes among the faithful and society at large.
In light of the recent attacks on the Kyiv Pechersk Lavra, the calls for international support to safeguard its sacred heritage have intensified. This situation highlights the ongoing struggle to protect cultural landmarks amid the war's devastation. For more insights on the Lavra's plea for global protection of its significant sites, see how the community is rallying in response to these threats following the Russian strike.