Funeral and Burial Ceremony for Patriarch Filaret
The funeral and burial ceremony for His Holiness Patriarch Filaret was held in Kyiv on March 22, 2026. The Patriarch, who passed away after a severe illness, had been hospitalized on March 9, 2026, due to a decline in his health. The memorial liturgy commenced at the St. Volodymyr's Patriarchal Cathedral. Patriarch Filaret was a pivotal figure in the establishment of the independent Orthodox Church of Ukraine, a move that reshaped the nation's religious landscape.
A farewell service was also conducted at the St. Michael's Golden-Domed Cathedral, lasting from the evening of March 20 until March 21, 2026. During the Great Entrance of the memorial liturgy, the name of the Primate of the Orthodox Church of Ukraine, His Beatitude Metropolitan Epiphaniy, was proclaimed by Metropolitan Dmytro Rudiuk of Lviv and Sokal.
Legacy and Significance
Patriarch Filaret, who celebrated his 97th birthday on January 23, 2026, left a spiritual testament specifying his chosen burial site—the St. Volodymyr's Cathedral. The interment took place following the conclusion of the liturgy. This event marked a significant moment for the faithful and church representatives who gathered to honor the memory of the prominent church leader.
“The death of Patriarch Filaret is a significant loss for the Orthodox community of Ukraine.”
His legacy will remain a vital part of church history, and his burial in St. Volodymyr's Cathedral symbolizes the recognition of his contribution to the nation's spiritual life. The farewell ceremony drew attention not only from believers but also from the wider public, underscoring the Patriarch's profound influence on society.
The impact of Patriarch Filaret's passing extends beyond the religious community, as international figures have also expressed their condolences. Notably, US Secretary of State Marco Rubio has shared his sympathies, highlighting the global recognition of the Patriarch's influence on both spiritual and societal levels. This acknowledgment reflects the widespread respect he garnered throughout his life and the significant void his departure leaves.