Former MP: His Beatitude does not try to please anyone except God

His Beatitude Metropolitan Onuphry and Vadym Novynskyi. Photo: novynskyi.com

Former member of parliament and protodeacon of the Ukrainian Orthodox Church, Vadym Novynskyi, congratulated His Beatitude Metropolitan Onuphry, the Primate of the UOC, on his 80th birthday, noting his profound wisdom and resilience in difficult times. In his congratulatory message, Novynskyi highlighted that Metropolitan Onuphry was chosen as the head of the Church by God's will during a challenging period for Ukraine, a choice that time has since proven right.

"It is providential that the Lord blessed His Beatitude to lead the millions of faithful of the Ukrainian Orthodox Church during these toughest times," Novynskyi said. He reminded that the Primate’s election took place in August 2014, a time when the Ukrainian authorities attempted to interfere in church affairs. Despite this, by God’s will, it was not an “effective manager” who was elected but a “true monk and prayerful servant,” whom Novynskyi described as both “a wise church manager and a prudent church leader.”

Vadym Novynskyi particularly emphasized Metropolitan Onuphry's ability to withstand external pressures and maintain the Church's unity. According to him, the Primate faces daily challenges and attempts to decimate the Ukrainian Orthodox Church, but his strength lies in prayer and the support of his flock: “No one could bear this without the strengthening power of Divine grace and the prayerful support of millions of brothers and sisters in Ukraine and throughout the Orthodox world.”

Novynskyi also stressed that Metropolitan Onuphry does not seek earthly rewards or popularity but leads his flock in the spirit of true Christian humility: “Metropolitan Onuphry does not seek awards from the authorities or likes on social media; he does not try to please everyone. His only aim is to remain faithful to God.” According to Novynskyi, this is why Metropolitan Onuphry is “where he belongs – at the Lord's Throne, praying for all of us.”

In conclusion, the politician expressed confidence that the Lord will not abandon the First Hierarch and that the faithful should continue supporting him with their prayers: “The Lord will not forsake His sincere and fervent servant. So let us not abandon him either – offering our prayers and our brotherly support!”

In his congratulatory message, the UOC protodeacon wished Metropolitan Onuphry “spiritual joy and inner peace, fortitude, and good health.”

As previously reported by the UOJ, on November 5, His Beatitude Metropolitan Onuphry celebrates his 80th birthday.

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