This is a special and great holiday for every Ukrainian. In this difficult period of brutal war, our Ukrainian people continue to fight for their freedom and the right to live freely on their God-blessed land. The military events taking place today have become a true test for all of us—a test of maturity, patriotism, and love for our Motherland. And there can be no doubt that our people will emerge victorious in this war, for the Gospel says, ‘for all who take the sword will perish by the sword’ (Matthew 26:52).

Today, Ukrainian society faces the task of deeply rethinking the causes of this war. May the All-Merciful Lord forgive us our sins, the sins of our fathers, grandfathers, and great-grandfathers, and have mercy on Ukraine and its people, granting them the long-awaited and just peace. Each of us must help Ukraine, first and foremost, through prayer, because ‘without God, we cannot even reach the doorstep,’ as well as through our work and sacrifice.

Let us always strive to remember and honor the memory of the fallen warriors—the immortal Heroes of Ukraine, volunteers, and peaceful compatriots. May their memory live forever in our hearts and be passed down from generation to generation.

Through Divine Providence and the Armed Forces of Ukraine, we were able to stop the enemy at the gates of our capital—the Golden-Domed City of Kyiv.

Let us earnestly pray to the Lord God, the Creator of nations, to protect the freedom, independence, and integrity of our Motherland.

The war has shown us all that our strength lies in unity. Let us tirelessly beseech the Lord with the words of our prayer:

“God the Great One, protect Ukraine for us.”

May God’s blessing always be with Ukraine and its people.

Glory to Ukraine!

+Andriy, Bishop of Toronto, UOCC

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