Farewell to Patriarch Filaret
The body of Patriarch Filaret was brought to the St. Michael's Golden-Domed Cathedral on March 20, 2026, for public mourning. The Patriarch, a pivotal figure in the establishment of the independent Orthodox Church of Ukraine, passed away after a severe illness. He had been hospitalized on March 9, 2026, following a decline in his health. Notably, he had celebrated his 97th birthday on January 23, 2026. In his official spiritual testament, Patriarch Filaret designated the St. Volodymyr's Cathedral as his final resting place, where he had served for half a century.
Clergy led by Metropolitan Epifaniy, the head of the Orthodox Church of Ukraine, met the casket. A memorial service was conducted by Metropolitan Epifaniy, Metropolitan Yevstratiy, Archbishop Ahapit, and Bishop Yefrem. The commemorative events will proceed according to the published schedule for the farewell and burial.
Schedule for Farewell and Burial
- Saturday, March 21 - The body of Patriarch Filaret will lie in repose at the St. Michael's Golden-Domed Cathedral throughout the day.
- Sunday, March 22 - A funeral liturgy will be held in the morning.
- Following the liturgy on Sunday, March 22, a procession will proceed to the St. Volodymyr's Cathedral for the burial service.
The Patriarch's death marks a significant moment for Ukrainian Orthodoxy, given his profound influence on the church and society. His decades of dedicated service and role in shaping the Orthodox Church of Ukraine will leave a lasting legacy for the faithful. The farewell ceremonies are being conducted with deep reverence, reflecting his immense stature in the nation's spiritual life.
As the nation mourns the passing of Patriarch Filaret, it's essential to reflect on his remarkable life and contributions to the Ukrainian Orthodox Church. His leadership and vision played a crucial role in the formation of the independent church, making his legacy particularly significant for the faithful. For more insights into his life and the circumstances surrounding his death, read our detailed coverage here.