Epiphanius – 46. Interesting Facts about the Life of the Metropolitan.

Metropolitan Epiphanius, the head of the Orthodox Church of Ukraine, is celebrating his 46th birthday today. It was on this day six years ago that he was consecrated to the throne and began to fulfill his duties as the head of the UOC/OCU.

Biography of Epiphanius

Metropolitan Epiphanius, whose real name is Serhiy Dumenko, was born in the village of Vovkove in the Odesa region. He spent his childhood in Stara Zhadova in the Chernivtsi region.

'When we are called Bandera supporters, we take pride in it. For some, such a designation is offensive, but for us, it is an honor. Our land has given birth to such glorious heroes who once said that the Time will come when one will say, ‘Glory to Ukraine!’, and millions will respond, ‘Glory to the Heroes!’

Metropolitan Epiphanius

Epiphanius's path to serving God was difficult and began in his childhood. He grew up without a father and studied even at night. His first encounter with the church was thanks to his grandmother.

In school, Epiphanius was an exemplary student, always focused on his studies. At 12, his mother remarried, but the boy continued to live with his grandfather and grandmother, whom he loved dearly.

'I always relied on myself. I was raised without a father, with my grandmother. I was loved, but I never had protection. Perhaps this is what strengthened me and has now manifested.'

Metropolitan Epiphanius

In school, he decided to become a priest. He began his ecclesiastical career in Rivne region. His education was obtained in Ukraine and Greece, not in Russia.

'Try to look into the Bible as many times as you open Google, and you will find answers that you won't find on the Internet.'

Metropolitan Epiphanius

Career

Metropolitan Epiphanius's career began in 2008 when he was appointed secretary to Patriarch Filaret. Later, he became the head of the affairs of the Kyiv Patriarchate. In 2013, he became the Metropolitan of Pereiaslav-Khmelnytskyi and Bilocherkivskyi, as well as the vicar of Patriarch Filaret.

'If you make a decision, move forward, don’t look back, overcome obstacles, and do not lose heart under the pressure of falsehood.'

Metropolitan Epiphanius

Metropolitan Epiphanius has more than 50 scientific publications on Orthodox theology and is actively engaged in public activities. After the Unification Council in 2018, Epiphanius became the head of the Orthodox Church of Ukraine.

'When we are united, when the entire free world stands in solidarity with us, the aggressor begins to retreat.'

Metropolitan Epiphanius

Metropolitan Epiphanius is one of the youngest heads of Orthodox churches with great authority. He has significant influence on the religious and public life of Ukraine.