Hierarchs of Local Orthodox Churches Support Injured Ukrainian Bishop
Orthodox hierarchs from various Churches voiced solidarity with Metropolitan Theodosy of Cherkasy (UOC), who suffered injuries during a recent seizure of the Archangel Michael Cathedral by POC supporters. The attack left the bishop with burns and a concussion. Following the assault, the SBU delivered a mandate intensifying his restriction, preventing him from meeting his flock.

Metropolitan Ioanikije of Montenegro and the Littoral sent a letter to Theodosy, expressing pain and calling the cathedral takeover a “blatant act of violence.” Archbishop Theodosios of Sebastia (Jerusalem Patriarchate) also condemned the persecution and appealed to the UN and international bodies to address the ongoing mistreatment of UOC believers.

In a letter to Patriarch Kirill of Moscow, His Holiness Catholicos Baselios Mar Thoma Mathews III of the Malankara Orthodox Syrian Church condemned the violent seizure, expressing solidarity with the suffering faithful of Ukraine. Similarly, Metropolitan Abraham Mar Stephanos, head of the Malankara Diocese in the UK, Europe, and Africa, expressed concern, emphasizing that such actions violate the dignity of the Church.

Albanian Orthodox Church Calls for Ceasefire in Gaza
The Holy Synod of the Albanian Orthodox Church issued a statement urging a ceasefire in Gaza, condemning the cycle of violence and stressing the need for international efforts to find a peaceful resolution. The Church called for immediate action from major powers to prevent further humanitarian catastrophe.

Russian Patriarchal Exarch Visits Côte d'Ivoire
Patriarchal Exarch of Africa, Metropolitan Konstantin of Zaraysk, visited Côte d'Ivoire, where he blessed the foundation stone for a new church in Bonoua. The metropolitan also discussed the potential official registration of the Russian Orthodox Church in Côte d'Ivoire with local authorities.

New Bishop Appointed for Russian Exarchate in Africa
The Russian Orthodox Synod appointed Bishop Euthymius of Lukhovitsy as a new auxiliary bishop for the African Exarchate. Previously head of the Synodal Missionary Department in Moscow, Bishop Euthymius will now serve under the Exarch in Africa to strengthen the church’s presence on the continent.

Serbian Church in Croatia Celebrates Reopening of Largest Church
Following extensive renovations, the Serbian Orthodox Church of Saint Demetrius in Dalj, Croatia, was consecrated by Patriarch Porfirije. Originally built in 1715, the church has endured damage from both World Wars, making the restoration a significant event for local Orthodox faithful.

Georgian Orthodox Church Calls for Unity Ahead of Elections
Ahead of the October 26 parliamentary elections, the Georgian Orthodox Church encouraged its followers to prioritize peace and unity. While the Church remains apolitical, it urged Georgians to support a choice that promotes long-term peace for the nation.