For Release: At the July 11/24, 2020, session of the Synod of Bishops, which was held at the Synodal Headquarters in New York City, a resolution was heard from the Spiritual Court of the Eastern American Diocese regarding the activities of Archpriest Alexander Belya who wrought disturbance in the church life of several diocesan parishes, as well as the clergy serving alongside him: Priest Vasyl Deiak, Protodeacon Rostislav Zadorozhny, and Deacon George Hero.

Having discussed the resolution and the circumstances of this case comprehensively, including actions undertaken by all four that have been a cause of temptation for both clergy and flock, to the point of departing beneath the omophorion of a separate jurisdiction without a release from their ruling bishop, it is with sorrow that the Synod of Bishops adopts the following resolution, provided here in brief:

To ratify the resolution of the Spiritual Court of the Eastern American Diocese regarding the laicization of the former Archpriest Alexander Belya, Priest Vasyl Deiak, Protodeacon Rostislav Zadorozhny, and Deacon George Hero, in accordance with the determination of their ruling bishop.