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And you really believe, that this is about Christianity only, not about politics?

I couldn't possibly be well informed enough to know the answer, which is why I raise the issue. It seems probable that Chernomyrdin is motivated by politics.

My question is, what motivates the Primate?

Chernomyrdin noted in his speech the outstanding role that Metropolitan Vladimir played in the spiritual revival of the Ukrainian and Russian peoples

Has there been a spiritual revival among the Ukrainians and Russians? Has the UO Church played a significant role in this? Is the Primate a man of God or is he just a church bureaucrat? You are closer to the scene than am I.

You know, there are 2 Orthodox Churches in Ukraine (plus Greek Catholic Church, which is a different thing).

One is affiliated with Moscow Patriarchate and the Russian Orthodox Church - this is this canonical one, as it is recognized by the rest of Orthodoxy.

The second one is independent from Russia.

And when Russian politicians honor the leader of the Church, which cheers deep relations between Ukraine and Russia - - somehow I can't oppose the impression, that politics is deeply involved here.

But maybe Mazepa can answer to your questions - he's Ukrainian.

One thing that I find offensive is how can this Russian syndicate be called a "Church". Alexei, current head, was a KGB asset. And God knows (pun intended) how many others. Think about it- you go to a priest for a confession and by tomorrow it'll be in a report. It's despicable. There's no way around it.
In USSR, up till 80s the churches out there that were still standing, almost ALL were Russian Orthodox while Greek Catholics and independent Ukrainian Orthodox were praying in the woods.

Then there's the behaviour of the "church", it's "christian values" like demonization of other religions. It's incredibly xenophobic. Just look at the behaviour of the two heads, Alexei and John Paul II. One is embracing Jews and Muslims, extending a hand to the Orthodox rite. The other is telling him to get lost and not to "invade" rightfully HIS (!!!!) territory (reference to JP2 visit to Ukraine in 2000 and the reaction of the ROC).

ROC has no business in Ukraine. It's more interested in promoting Moscow's agenda on the FOREIGN Ukrainian soil than saving souls. Like during the presidential elections last year- official heads of the 'church' in Ukraine were calling Yuschenko a demon- quite something.

Holy people my behind.