Ukrainian Orthodox Church-Kyiv Patriarchate Elects New Patriarch Amidst Dispute with OCU

Kyiv – The Ukrainian Orthodox Church-Kyiv Patriarchate (UOC-KP) has elected Archbishop Nikodim Kobzar of Sumy as its new head, following the death of Patriarch Filaret Denysenko on March 20, 2026. The election took place online, as police had blocked access to St. Volodymyr’s Cathedral, preventing UOC-KP representatives from gathering in person, according to reports.

Election Details

The election of Archbishop Nikodim was announced by Ioasaf Shibaev, the Metropolitan of Bilhorod and Oboyan. Seven hierarchs of the UOC-KP participated in the vote, with two joining online. Archbishop Andrey of Belotserkovsky abstained from voting, citing concerns over procedural irregularities. The vote resulted in the unanimous election of Nikodim (Kobzar) as Patriarch of Kyiv and All Rus-Ukraine.

Dispute with the Orthodox Church of Ukraine

The UOC-KP has accused the Orthodox Church of Ukraine (OCU) of seizing the body of Patriarch Filaret following his death. Archbishop Nikodim alleges that the OCU forcibly removed Filaret’s body from the hospital and transported it to St. Michael’s Cathedral for funeral arrangements, despite Filaret’s reported wishes to have his funeral service held at Vladimir Cathedral by UOC-KP bishops. The UOC-KP bishops were reportedly denied access to Vladimir Cathedral and threatened with police intervention.

Future Plans and Independence

The newly elected Patriarch Nikodim and the UOC-KP bishops have affirmed their commitment to maintaining the church’s independence and have no intention of joining any other church structures. They intend to continue the operate of Patriarch Filaret in establishing a fully independent Ukrainian Orthodox Church with a patriarchal structure. A key priority for Patriarch Nikodim will be the registration of a new charter for the UOC-KP.

Patriarch Filaret’s Passing and Will

Patriarch Filaret Denysenko died on March 20, 2026, at the age of 98. Prior to his death, a will attributed to Patriarch Filaret surfaced, requesting that his funeral service be conducted by UOC-KP bishops at Vladimir Patriarchal Cathedral. However, the OCU disputes the authenticity of this will, claiming it was signed under duress.

Funeral Arrangements

The OCU has announced that farewell to Patriarch Filaret will be held at St. Michael’s Golden-Domed Cathedral in Kyiv, with a funeral liturgy to be conducted by Metropolitan Epiphanius of the OCU on the morning of March 22. The funeral service will conclude at Vladimir Cathedral, followed by burial.