U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio has extended his condolences to the people of Ukraine following the death of Patriarch Filaret, the honorary leader of the Ukrainian Orthodox Church. In a statement, Rubio expressed sorrow over the loss, acknowledging Filaret’s significant impact on the spiritual identity of Ukraine.
“We mourn the passing of His Holiness Patriarch Filaret and offer our heartfelt condolences to the people of Ukraine and all members of the Ukrainian Orthodox community,” Rubio stated. He emphasized that Filaret’s life was dedicated to service and played a crucial role during pivotal moments in Ukraine’s history.
Rubio added, “His legacy will endure in the strength of Ukraine’s religious and national life. May he rest in peace.”
Details on Patriarch Filaret’s Passing
Filaret passed away on March 20 at the age of 98. His health had deteriorated in recent months, leading to hospitalization earlier this March, as reported by Epiphanius, the Metropolitan of Kyiv and the head of the Orthodox Church of Ukraine (OCU). Epiphanius noted that Filaret’s teachings on the importance of unity within the Ukrainian Church would remain in the hearts of many.
On the evening of his death, Filaret’s body was transported to the St. Michael’s Golden-Domed Monastery in Kyiv, where a public farewell began after 8 PM. The funeral service and burial are scheduled for Sunday, March 22.
In a related development, Archbishop Nikodim of Sumy has been elected as the new patriarch of the Ukrainian Orthodox Church of the Kyiv Patriarchate (UOC-KP). This decision was made during a meeting that included bishops from both Ukraine and abroad, with international participants joining via online platforms.
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U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio has expressed his condolences to Ukraine following the death of Patriarch Filaret, recognizing his influence on the nation's spiritual identity. Filaret passed away at the age of 98, with his funeral scheduled for March 22, while Archbishop Nikodim has been elected as his successor.