Ukrainian Patriarch Filaret Dies: Former Presidents Assess His Role in National Independence

Remembering Patriarch Filaret

According to Главком: Patriarch Filaret (secular name Mykhailo Denysenko), the head of the Ukrainian Orthodox Church – Kyiv Patriarchate, passed away on March 20 at the age of 97. He had been hospitalized since March 9. Leading the church from 1995, he is widely remembered for his pivotal role in securing the Tomos of autocephaly for the Ukrainian Orthodox Church in 2019, for which he was awarded the title Hero of Ukraine. His lifelong work was central to the movement for an independent Ukrainian church separate from Moscow's influence.

Condolences from Former Leaders

Several former Ukrainian presidents offered tributes following the death of Patriarch Filaret:

• Second President Leonid Kuchma
• Third President Viktor Yushchenko
• Fifth President Petro Poroshenko

Leonid Kuchma highlighted Filaret's 'incredible charisma' and 'unbreakable spirit,' emphasizing that his struggle for the independence of the Ukrainian church was long and arduous. 'Your Holiness, thank you,' Kuchma stated, acknowledging the Patriarch's contributions to both church and country. Leonid Kuchma

In his statement, Viktor Yushchenko described Filaret as a 'rock of a man' and an 'epoch-defining figure,' whose life path embodied Ukraine's centuries-long struggle for spiritual freedom. 'This is the foundation of our state independence. For there cannot be a free state without a free soul,' Yushchenko noted, considering the Patriarch a crucial chapter in Ukraine's history.

Petro Poroshenko also expressed his condolences, remarking that with Filaret's passing, an entire era has ended-a time of dreaming about spiritual independence and the revival of Ukrainian Orthodoxy. 'As it is said in the Psalms, the Lord stood at his right hand so that he would not be shaken,' Poroshenko emphasized, expressing confidence that the Patriarch's deeds would live on in the memory of many.

During his final visit to the head of the Orthodox Church of Ukraine, Metropolitan Epifaniy, Filaret entrusted him with his spiritual legacy, confirming his desire to support the church in difficult times. Patriarch Filaret will be remembered as a major Ukrainian spiritual leader whose fight for church and country significantly impacted Ukraine's modern history.

The death of Patriarch Filaret marks a significant moment in Ukraine's religious and political life. His activities not only contributed to the establishment of an independent Ukrainian Orthodox Church but also became a vital part of national identity. The recognition of his contribution by various political figures indicates that Filaret's legacy will endure in the consciousness of Ukrainians as a symbol of the struggle for spiritual autonomy and independence. How his legacy influences the future development of the Ukrainian church and society at large remains a critical question for the nation's path forward.

As the nation mourns the loss of Patriarch Filaret, the reflections of past leaders provide deeper insight into his significant impact on Ukraine's spiritual and national identity. For further understanding of the political landscape surrounding his legacy and the reactions from various politicians, you can explore the political responses following his passing.