On 28 July 2025 the Commercial Court of the Chernihiv Region dismissed the claim of the National Architectural and Historical Reserve “Ancient Chernihiv” against the administration of the Chernihiv eparchy for the return of property and the removal of obstacles by way of eviction. The judgment allows the eparchy to continue using without charge part of the buildings of the Yeletskiy Holy Dormition Convent complex, among them those in which the sisters live. Forty-five nuns live there now, the oldest aged 92, 90 and 84; the community derives its right of use from a decision of the executive committee of the Chernihiv regional council of 31 December 1991.
This is not the first episode of a dispute running since 2023: the case has already passed through the first instance and appeal, reached the higher court and been sent back for fresh consideration. Earlier rulings went against the eparchy — part of the complex, including the cathedral and the bell tower, has been in the reserve’s use since 2023.
The reserve’s position after 28 July is unchanged: its director told Suspilne that these buildings must be vacated, and that an appeal would be considered once the full text of the judgment was published on 7 August. Counsel for the eparchy said he sees room for agreement, up to a lease at a moderate rent.
Sources: Suspilne Chernihiv, 28 July 2025 — both positions; Information and Education Department of the UOC, 29 July 2025.
