On March 20, Patriarch Filaret, a prominent leader of the Orthodox Church of Ukraine, passed away at the age of 98. His death marks a significant moment in the history of Ukrainian Orthodoxy, as he played a crucial role in the church’s formation and unity.
Following his death, a farewell ceremony commenced at the St. Michael’s Golden-Domed Cathedral in Kyiv, where his body was brought for public mourning. Clergy, led by Metropolitan Epiphaniy, formed a corridor to honor Filaret as the memorial service began. Many citizens of Kyiv attended to pay their respects.
Metropolitan Epiphaniy remarked on Filaret’s enduring message of love, stating, “His last words were words of love… Love has the power to unite. It is no coincidence that the farewell begins today at St. Michael’s Cathedral, which, thanks to his efforts and unwavering faith, has been restored to its former glory.”
Attendees expressed their admiration for Filaret, with one individual, Olena, noting his extraordinary contributions to the Ukrainian people. She stated, “We all Ukrainians today must honor him and show our great respect in our love, to properly conduct this day. Thanks to Patriarch Filaret, we now have a free Ukrainian Orthodox Church.”
Filaret was known for his support of military families, visiting soldiers in eastern Ukraine and providing blessings and encouragement to both families of the fallen and those missing in action. A participant named Anastasia reflected on his impact, saying, “He was an extraordinarily valuable figure not only for Ukraine on a global scale but also for individuals who found in him a source of unwavering faith.”
The farewell service at St. Michael’s Cathedral will continue until the morning of March 22, with access potentially limited for valid reasons, although it will generally remain open to the public. As per tradition, the Gospel will be read over his grave, and memorial prayers will be conducted.
A Divine Liturgy and Panikhida will take place on the morning of March 21, followed by ongoing mourning throughout the day. On March 22, a Divine Liturgy will commence at 8:30 AM, led by Metropolitan Epiphaniy alongside the episcopate and clergy, followed by the funeral service.
A mourning procession is scheduled to depart from St. Michael’s Monastery around 11 AM, proceeding through Sophia Square to the Volodymyr Cathedral, where the funeral service and burial will take place. Archpriest Yevstratiy Zorya stated, “Patriarch Filaret wished for his final resting place to be at Volodymyr Cathedral, and he expressed this desire multiple times. Therefore, the church will fulfill his wishes.”
Filaret, born Mykhailo Antonovych Denysenko, served as the Patriarch of the Kyiv and all Rus-Ukraine from 1995 until 2018. He was instrumental in the unification of the Ukrainian Orthodox Church, which was officially established during a council in December 2018. Despite his later disputes regarding church governance, Filaret remained a significant figure in Ukrainian religious life.
Filaret’s health had declined in recent months, leading to his hospitalization on March 9 due to complications from chronic illnesses. His passing represents a pivotal moment for the Orthodox community in Ukraine, as they reflect on his contributions and legacy.
Patriarch Filaret, a pivotal figure in Ukrainian Orthodoxy, passed away at 98, prompting a public farewell at St. Michael's Cathedral. His legacy includes significant contributions to the church's unity and support for military families.