With a blessing and on behalf of His Eminence Metropolitan Antony, Primate of the Ukrainian Orthodox Church of the USA, Archbishop Daniel, President of the Consistory of the UOC of the USA, traveled to the Ecumenical Patriarchate of Constantinople. This official visit served as an opportunity to strengthen the spiritual and fraternal ties between the Mother Church of Constantinople and the Ukrainian Orthodox Church of the USA while discussing key ecclesiastical and humanitarian initiatives.

The Ecumenical Patriarchate has long been the spiritual beacon of global Orthodoxy, a place where history, tradition, and faith intertwine to guide the Church in its mission to spread the Gospel and minister to the faithful. The Ukrainian Orthodox Church of the USA, maintains a direct and sacred connection to this apostolic heritage, preserving its unwavering dedication to the Orthodox Christian faith. The people of Ukraine and its worldwide diaspora have looked to Constantinople as their Mother Church, especially in times of trial and tribulation.

During his time at the Phanar, Archbishop Daniel was received with great warmth by His All-Holiness Ecumenical Patriarch Bartholomew, the spiritual father of global Orthodoxy. The two hierarchs, in the presence of His Eminence Elder Metropolitan Emmanual of Chalcedon, engaged in meaningful discussions regarding the ongoing humanitarian and ecclesiastical projects of the UOC of the USA, particularly as they relate to Ukraine and the broader Ukrainian diaspora across North and South America, Western Europe, and Australia.

One of the central topics of discussion was the continuing humanitarian outreach of the UOC of the USA in Ukraine, particularly in response to the ongoing war and suffering faced by millions of Ukrainians. The Ukrainian Orthodox Church of the USA has been a steadfast provider of aid, offering critical material and spiritual support to those affected by the war. This work is carried out through partnerships with Orthodox and humanitarian organizations, ensuring that medical supplies, food, housing assistance, and spiritual guidance reach those in dire need.

Archbishop Daniel and His All-Holiness also discussed the significance of the recent federal academic accreditation of St. Sophia Ukrainian Orthodox Theological Seminary, a major milestone for theological education in the diaspora. The accreditation serves as a testament to the Church’s commitment to fostering the intellectual and spiritual formation of future Orthodox clergy and lay leaders. This achievement ensures that the seminary continues to uphold the highest academic and theological standards, preparing students for a life of ministry and service.

Additionally, the conversation touched upon the broader ministry of the UOC of the USA, including its efforts in pastoral care, missionary work, youth and family ministry, and inter-Orthodox cooperation. The Ukrainian Orthodox Church of the USA remains actively engaged in spiritual and social ministry in various regions, ensuring that Orthodox communities around the world remain connected to the faith and heritage that have sustained them for centuries.

A particularly moving moment during the meeting was Archbishop Daniel’s expression of gratitude to His All-Holiness for entrusting him with the honor of serving as the Patriarchal Representative at the enthronement of Metropolitan Sevastianos of Atlanta. This appointment symbolized the continued collaboration between the Ecumenical Patriarchate and the Ukrainian Orthodox Church, reaffirming the bond of unity that transcends national borders.

Moreover, the Archbishop conveyed the profound joy experienced by the faithful of the UOC of the USA during the recent visit of His Beatitude Metropolitan Epifaniy of Kyiv and All Ukraine to the United States. His Beatitude’s participation in the Solemn Eucharistic Liturgy with Archbishop Daniel, the clergy, and the faithful of the Church was a moment of deep spiritual significance, strengthening the unity between the Orthodox Church of Ukraine, the Ukrainian Orthodox Church of the USA, and the broader Orthodox world. The presence of His Beatitude at St. Andrew the First-Called Apostle Ukrainian Orthodox Cathedral in Silver Spring, MD was a moment of spiritual renewal, reminding all in attendance of the unbreakable apostolic connection that unites us in faith.

The visit of Archbishop Daniel to the Ecumenical Patriarchate of Constantinople was more than just an administrative meeting - it was a reaffirmation of the sacred mission of the Church to preach the Gospel, serve the suffering, and unite the faithful under the banner of Christ’s love. His discussions with His All-Holiness Ecumenical Patriarch Bartholomew underscored the shared commitment of both the Mother Church of Constantinople and the Ukrainian Orthodox Church of the USA to promoting peace, healing, and spiritual nourishment for the faithful in Ukraine and the diaspora.

As he departed from the Phanar, Archbishop Daniel reflected on the significance of the moment, stating: "Our spiritual bond with the Ecumenical Patriarchate is a testament to the apostolic heritage we have inherited and the sacred responsibility we carry. The work of the Church, whether in Ukraine, the United States, or beyond, is to bring light where there is darkness, hope where there is despair, and unity where there is division. This mission is a calling for all Orthodox Christians, and we continue it with faith, courage, and love."

With this spirit of renewed commitment, the Ukrainian Orthodox Church of the USA remains dedicated to fulfilling its role as a vital link between the Mother Church and the Ukrainian faithful worldwide. Under the guidance of His Eminence Metropolitan Antony and Archbishop Daniel, the Church will continue its ecclesiastical, theological, and humanitarian mission, carrying forward the light of Christ in an ever-challenging world.

May the work of the Church be blessed and strengthened, and may the sacred connection between Constantinople, Kyiv, and the Ukrainian Orthodox diaspora continue to flourish for generations to come.