Schism cuts the soul of our society, – Ukrainian diplomat

Schism in the spiritual sphere cannot be cultivated even under the guise of patriotism, as this can lead to irreversible consequences in society. This was said by Ukrainian Ambassador to Greece Vladimir Shkurov in an interview with "The Orthodox Heritage of Ukraine on Mount Athos".

"In Ukraine there are very difficult times. I believe that the schism in Orthodoxy is a very bad thing for our society because the society is thus cut in the place where its soul is. It seems unnoticeable, but over time everything appears. It manifests itself in social misunderstanding, bitterness of people.

The question of religion should be solved very delicately because it is impossible, even under the guise of patriotism, to cultivate schism in the spiritual sphere. Otherwise, this can lead to irreversible consequences," believes the Ukrainian diplomat.

Vladimir Shkurov also spoke about the importance of supporting spiritual and cultural ties between Ukraine and Greece.

"Of course, it is possible to create some kind of union on the basis of purely economic relations, given the strength of interests between the states. But if there is no spiritual and cultural foundation between them, everything will collapse. And this is very important in the strategy of international work. In addition, a worthy representation of oneself through culture is an element of a certain maturity of the nation," said Vladimir Shkurov. At the same time, he drew attention to the fact that Greece is also experiencing difficult times, but the religiousness of the Greeks is holding back the tension in the society.

"The Greeks are very religious. Today, the government is trying to carry out some reforms, so there is a certain tension in the society. But, to speak objectively, faith is very deep in the soul of every Greek. In all services, on all feasts, churches are crowded with people," said the Ukrainian diplomat.