In the churches of the Orthodox Church of Ukraine in Chernihiv, it became possible to baptize a child even without the physical presence of one of the godparents. This became necessary in situations where the baptized person is at the front.
About such cases told rector of the Cathedral of the Holy Great Martyr Catherine Roman (Kinyk). Father Roman noted that in some cases video communication was used to conduct the sacrament. For example, when the parents chose the godfather, but he was defending Ukraine at the front at the time, the ceremony could still take place.
“There were times when the phone was simply turned on during the service, and the baptized person participated in the baptism via video link. His wife was in the church holding the phone, ensuring the presence of the baptized person in this way.” explained the abbot.
According to the priest, this form of participation is full-fledged, since all religious canons are observed. The main thing is that the baptized person spiritually participates in the celebration of the sacrament, even if he cannot be physically present. After returning, the godfather will be able to fully fulfill his duties, including taking the child in his arms and showing his love and support.
The priest emphasized that this practice helps to maintain spiritual connection even in difficult conditions of wartime, when many families are separated due to the circumstances of the war.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=P67JvkCq5Fk&ab_channel=ChelineTV
We will remind that the question of the connection between traditions and modernity in the churches of the Orthodox Church of Ukraine has repeatedly aroused public interest. Thus, earlier in Volyn, the use of frescoes with images of patrons in the temple was discussed, which caused a discussion about the admissibility of such innovations in religious practice.
