Fr. Andrei Yukhnevich, OMI, Released after Long Imprisonment in Belarus

On November 20, 2025, Fr. Andrei Yukhnevich, OMI, was released from a prison in Belarus after more than eighteen months of detention. Arrested in May 2024 and later sentenced in April 2025 to thirteen years, his release marks an important moment for the Church in the country.

In a public statement, the Conference of Catholic Bishops of Belarus expressed gratitude to everyone who worked toward this outcome, noting in particular the support of the Holy See and the renewed dialogue between Church and State.

Fr. Yukhnevich previously served as Superior of the Oblates in Belarus, pastor in Shumilino, and President of the Conference of Major Superiors of Religious Institutes.

The Missionary Oblates of Mary Immaculate have served in Belarus since 1992, and two members continue their ministry there today.

We join the Church in Belarus in giving thanks for this moment and offer our gratitude to the entire Charismatic Family for your prayers and support throughout this difficult period. Let us keep praying for peace, for dialogue, and for the Church’s mission in Belarus.

Published on the OMI World website