The Death of Patriarch Filaret
Patriarch Filaret (Mikhailo Denysenko) died on March 20, 2023, at the age of 97. His passing followed a severe illness he had been battling, which led to his hospitalization in Kyiv on March 9 after his health deteriorated. His death marks the end of an era for a major figure in modern Ukrainian religious life.
Born Mikhailo Antonovych Denysenko, he had led the Ukrainian Orthodox Church of the Kyiv Patriarchate since 1995. In 2019, he was awarded the title of Hero of Ukraine for his substantial contribution to the development and independence of the Ukrainian church.
Condolences and Tributes
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy expressed his condolences regarding the death of Patriarch Filaret. In his statement, he noted:
'This is a great loss for Ukrainians. He was a strong personality and one of the staunchest defenders of the Ukrainian church, its autonomy, and statehood. The Ukrainian people will always honor his contribution to building a local church.' — Volodymyr Zelenskyy
Zelenskyy also emphasized the importance of the ideas Patriarch Filaret championed: 'We also remember how Patriarch Filaret taught us to unite around the idea of a strong, independent Ukraine. May he rest in peace!'
The patriarch's death represents a significant loss for Ukrainian society, which will remember his role in the development of both the church and the state. His passing is a pivotal moment in the history of Ukrainian Orthodoxy, as he was a key figure in promoting its independence and shaping a distinct Ukrainian religious identity. His legacy will leave a profound mark, and his absence may influence the future direction of the church's structure and its societal role, a prospect that has resonated widely among the faithful and the public.
The legacy of Patriarch Filaret extends beyond his lifetime, as he played a crucial role in the establishment of an independent church in Ukraine. His commitment to religious autonomy and national identity has shaped the spiritual landscape of the country. To understand the full impact of his contributions, you can read more about his life and the ongoing fight for a free church here.