The history of the Holy Synod of the Autonomous Orthodox Church of Western Europe and Canada within the Patriarchate of Kiev reflects the complexities and challenges faced by the Ukrainian Orthodox Church in serving the diaspora, especially in Europe and Canada. Established in December 1993 by His Holiness Patriarch Volodymyr Romaniuk, the Synod’s primary mission was to cater to the spiritual needs of Ukrainian communities living outside Ukraine. This mission has persisted for nearly three decades, albeit with significant ecclesiastical and administrative challenges.

Key Historical Events:

Establishment of the Holy Synod (1993):
The Holy Synod of the Autonomous Orthodox Church of Western Europe and Canada was founded by Patriarch Volodymyr Romaniuk, focusing on serving the Ukrainian diaspora. This marked the beginning of a new ecclesiastical jurisdiction under the aegis of the Patriarchate of Kiev.

Separation from the “Synod of Milan” (1997):
On February 20, 1997, the relationship between the Autonomous Orthodox Church of Western Europe and Canada and the “Synod of Milan and Aquileia,” led by Metropolitan Evlogij, was officially severed. Metropolitan Evlogij had established a new jurisdiction after his canonical relationship with the Patriarchate of Kiev ended. However, Metropolitan Basilio and Metropolitan Volodymir remained loyal to the Tomos of Autonomy, preserving the canonical mission of the Church.

Preservation of the Holy Synod’s Canonicity:
Despite the dissolution of the Kyiv Patriarchate in 2018, the Autonomous Orthodox Church of Western Europe and Canada has maintained its canonical ties with Kiev. It continues to uphold the autonomy granted by the Tomos in 1993, a status reaffirmed through patriarchal bulls and canonical epistles exchanged between Patriarch Filaret and the Metropolitans in 1997-1998.

Leadership and Episcopal Structure:
The current Holy Synod consists of nine bishops, all ordained by Metropolitans Basilio and Volodymir. The Synod is committed to serving the Ukrainian diaspora in Western Europe and Canada. The Metropolia’s continuity and legitimacy are upheld by the uninterrupted apostolic succession from the Russian Orthodox Church Abroad (ROCOR), independent of the controversial succession of Patriarch Filaret.

Role of Metropolitan Volodymir:
Metropolitan Volodymir has been a pivotal figure, first appointed as Bishop of the Island of San Giulio in 1995. His leadership extends to serving as the Lieutenant of the Throne of Milan, and in 2022, he was enthroned as the Orthodox Archbishop of Milan and Metropolitan of San Giulio. His ecclesiastical authority is widely recognized within the Synod, which remains faithful to its original mission and the directives of the Patriarchs of Kiev.

Chronology of the Eparchy of San Giulio:

October 22, 1995: Enthronement of Patriarch Filaret.

November 27, 1995: Establishment of the Eparchy of San Giulio by Patriarch Filaret’s decree.

December 19, 1995: Archimandrite Volodymir was appointed as Bishop of San Giulio.

1997-1998: Despite internal church conflicts and the removal of certain bishops, the Synod maintained its canonical legitimacy.

Ecclesiastical Collaborations and Tensions:

Cooperation with Metropolitan Evlogij:
Despite ecclesiastical differences, Metropolitan Volodymir maintained a cooperative relationship with Metropolitan Evlogij, especially during episcopal ordinations in the early 2000s. However, this collaboration became impossible after 2013 and was formally ended.

Current Status:

The Autonomous Orthodox Church of Western Europe and Canada continues its mission under the protection of the Mother of God and the intercession of saints, notably Saint Patriarch Volodymir Romaniuk. The Church’s structure includes several Exarchates across Europe and Canada, with a dedicated episcopate overseeing its operations. The Church remains steadfast in its commitment to the Ukrainian Orthodox tradition, despite challenges in maintaining dialogue with the Ecumenical Patriarchate.