On January 6, 2025, the Orthodox Church of Ukraine (OCU) celebrates the sixth anniversary of receiving the Tomos of Autocephaly, a landmark event that restored the Church’s spiritual independence after three centuries of subjugation. This pivotal moment marked the fulfillment of the long-held dream of millions of Ukrainians for a fully independent, autocephalous Church.
Reflecting on the significance of this date, Metropolitan Epiphanius, the head of the OCU, emphasized: "This day six years ago will forever remain memorable in the finest details. It was filled with profound spiritual awe, heartfelt joy, and sincere gratitude. By God’s grace, the dream of millions of Ukrainians became a reality: our Church regained its dignity and equal standing among the sister churches."
A Historic Milestone
On January 5, 2019, His All-Holiness Ecumenical Patriarch Bartholomew ceremonially signed the Tomos in Constantinople. The next day, January 6, during the festive liturgy for the Feast of Theophany at St. George’s Church, the historic document was formally handed over to Metropolitan Epiphanius. This momentous occasion also featured a Eucharistic concelebration by the leaders of the Ecumenical Patriarchate and the newly autocephalous OCU.
Later that evening, the Tomos was brought to Kyiv. Remarkably, this day coincided with Christmas Eve in Ukraine, adding profound symbolism to the event. Reflecting on that moment, Metropolitan Epiphanius remarked: "It was like a guiding star that illuminated the path of our Church’s spiritual independence."
A United Path Forward
Thus, January 6 is celebrated not only as the anniversary of the Tomos but also as the Feast of Theophany, aligning the OCU with its Mother Church and most Local Orthodox Churches on the same calendar. The feast highlights two key aspects: the revelation of God as the Holy Trinity and the manifestation of the incarnate Christ, beginning His ministry open to all and for all time.
"This symbolism resonates with our Church," Metropolitan Epiphanius noted. "Just as Christ’s ministry was revealed to the world on Theophany, so too did our Ukrainian Orthodox Church begin its renewed, independent journey on this sacred day, remaining open to all and enduring for all time."
A Legacy of Independence and Faith
As the OCU celebrates this significant milestone, it continues to strengthen its mission of spiritual guidance, unity, and openness. This anniversary serves as a reminder of the Church’s enduring commitment to fostering faith, preserving independence, and embracing its role as a beacon of hope and unity for the Ukrainian people.
