Story perspectives

UOC-KP Elects Archbishop Nykodym Following Filaret's Death

3/22/2026

Summary

Story summary

Archbishop Nykodym (Volodymyr Kobzar) was elected head of the Ukrainian Orthodox Church-Kyivan Patriarchate (UOC-KP) on March 21, 2026, after the death of Patriarch Filaret on March 20.
Seven hierarchs participated in the extraordinary council meeting.
Some votes were cast online due to police restrictions at St. Volodymyr’s Cathedral.
Filaret opposed Russian influence and was 98 years old.
Burial is scheduled for March 22 at St. Volodymyr’s Cathedral in Kyiv, Ukraine.

History

Historical Context

In January 2019, the Ecumenical Patriarchate of Constantinople granted autocephaly to the Orthodox Church of Ukraine (OCU), marking a significant shift in Ukraine's religious landscape. This decision, supported by President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, aimed to diminish Russian influence following years of conflict, including the 2014 annexation of Crimea. The recent election of Archbishop Nykodym highlights ongoing tensions and the quest for religious autonomy in Ukraine.

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Story summary

Archbishop Nykodym (Volodymyr Kobzar) was elected head of the Ukrainian Orthodox Church-Kyivan Patriarchate (UOC-KP) on March 21, 2026, after the death of Patriarch Filaret on March 20.
Seven hierarchs participated in the extraordinary council meeting.
Some votes were cast online due to police restrictions at St. Volodymyr’s Cathedral.
Filaret opposed Russian influence and was 98 years old.
Burial is scheduled for March 22 at St. Volodymyr’s Cathedral in Kyiv, Ukraine.

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