Banned Russian Priest Upholds Condemnation of ‘Brother Killing Brother’ in Ukraine, Reports Reuters

KARABANOVO, Russia – Until the onset of the war in Ukraine, Father Ioann Burdin served as a priest in the Russian village of Karabanovo, located 370 kilometers northeast of Moscow. Now he finds himself branded as a heretic, barred from leading services, and driven out of his parish.

In spring 2022, Burdin openly criticized the conflict during a sermon and in online statements, asserting that as Christians, they could not remain silent "when a brother kills a brother." He claimed that the blood of Ukrainian civilians rests with Russia’s leaders, military personnel, and anyone who either supports the war or remains quiet about it.

As a result of his outspoken views, he faced a fine for "discrediting the Russian army." In June 2023, a Russian Orthodox Church court deemed him guilty of "heretical" pacifism and undermining the authority of Patriarch Kirill, a close ally of the Kremlin, leading to a ban on his ability to conduct services.

Despite this, Burdin insists that his preaching was not anti-war but rather rooted in Christian principles, citing the Biblical commandment against murder. "From my perspective, it was a Christian sermon, not an anti-war one," he stated. He added that murderers carry the "sin of Cain," who famously killed his brother Abel in the Old Testament.

The Church hierarchy, closely aligned with the Kremlin, has supported Russia’s military efforts and mandated that priests recite a special prayer for victory during services since September 2022. Burdin is one of many clergy members who have faced repercussions for their opposition to the conflict, according to a group that unites Christians across Russia, Ukraine, and Belarus.

Earlier this year, a church court decided that prominent liberal priest Aleksiy Uminsky should be "expelled from holy orders" for violating his oath by refusing to recite the victory prayer.

Reactions to Burdin’s statements about Ukraine have been mixed among parishioners in Karabanovo. A church worker, who chose to remain unnamed, noted that some community members urged Burdin to steer clear of political discussions and focus on the spiritual well-being of parishioners. One woman reportedly expressed frustration, suggesting he concentrate on church services rather than political matters.

Nevertheless, this worker expressed respect for Burdin and a desire to see him reinstated as a priest in Karabanovo, describing him as a kind person who has always been supportive.

Following the controversy, Burdin contemplated relocating to Bulgaria to continue his priesthood, a transition reportedly opposed by Russian church authorities. He ultimately returned to Russia, believing his presence was still needed in his home country.

Despite his ban, Burdin asserts that he continues to view himself as a priest and a servant of God. He was inspired by words from his 12-year-old daughter, who remarked that the church cannot prevent anyone from serving God.

"I remain the same Father Ioann for all my parishioners who have known me as such," Burdin stated. "I am not defrocked. I am simply banned from serving."