Kaniv Cathedral Reopens: From Damage and Theft to Renewed Hope

Kaniv Cathedral Reopens After Moscow Patriarchate's Departure: Damage, Theft, and Renewed Hope The Uspensky Cathedral in Kaniv, Ukraine, recently reopened after a period of transition following a court decision in September 2024 transferring ownership to the state. Representatives of the Moscow Patriarchate, who previously occupied the cathedral, left behind a scene of damage and theft. The altar and other valuable religious artifacts were removed, and the bells were damaged. However, the community has shown resilience. On May 22, 2025, the first service in Ukrainian was held, marking a new chapter for the cathedral. "They robbed God's house, God's temple," stated Protoierei Sergiy, the rector of the cathedral, describing the state in which they found the building. He noted the theft of the central analogion, where the main icon is placed, among other items. Varvara Pozivailo, a parishioner, expressed her joy at the cathedral's reopening: "We thank God, and we thank those who helped open our Uspensky Cathedral. We are very happy." The reopening is particularly poignant for those with loved ones serving in the military. Mariya Panchenko, another parishioner, whose son has been fighting on the front lines for three years, stated, "I pray only for Ukraine." Efforts are underway to restore the bells and a commemorative plaque on the cathedral's facade, symbolizing the community's determination to move forward.