The status of a patriarchate in the Ukrainian Greek Catholic Church should not inflame quarrels between us and the Orthodox world, according to an interview on ZIK by Bishop Bohdan (Dziurakh), Secretary of the Synod of UGCC  Bishops and administrator of the Patriarchal Curia.  Rather, the Orthodox should view it as a further development of Christ’s Church.

The Secretary of the Synod stated, "We in the UGCC rejoice in every good happening in the life of the Orthodox Church in Ukraine and beyond.  If they reciprocate with a similar attitude, then we expect that the announcement of a Patriarchate would be perceived as an expression of harmony within the Christian Church.”

The Bishop emphasized that a patriarchal status indicates the maturity of the UGCC as well as Christianity in Ukraine.  “In this case, everything will depend on the sincerity of each side towards one another,” he continued. “This attitude should be brotherly, evangelical and Christian. Should it also contain other elements, whether human or political, certain difficulties can emerge. However, the Church should exhibit good will, ignoring petty considerations.”

The hierarch also underlined that “the status of a patriarchate for the UGCC is not simply an honor; it is essential towards the better functioning of the Church and improving its pastoral functions.”

“This is not something novel; rather it is an acknowledgement that the Church has reached the maturity of a patriarchal status.  It is the life of the Church that marks its maturity.  In general, new patriarchs in the Catholic Church are announced by an Ecumenical Council or by the Holy Father’s decision,” concluded Bishop Dziurakh.

© http://www.ugcc.org.ua/?L=2 - march 17th 2012