Video-message of the Head of the UGCC on the 157th Week of Full-Scale War, February 16, 2025
Glory to Jesus Christ!
Dear brothers and sisters in Christ!
We count the days and nights, the long weeks of this terrible war. The 157th week of Russia’s full-scale invasion of Ukrainian land has now passed.
On the night of February 12, Ukraine once again endured a massive missile assault on our cities and villages, including Kyiv. Residential buildings burned, and human blood was shed.
A Russian attack drone struck the sarcophagus of the fourth reactor at the Chernobyl nuclear power plant. Thanks to the courage of our firefighters and emergency responders, the fire was extinguished, and radiation leakage was prevented.
We are alive because of the brave men and women on the front lines, holding their positions near Pokrovsk, near Kupyansk, in the North and South of our homeland. And once again, we can declare: Ukraine stands! Ukraine fights! Ukraine prays!
Last week, the Verkhovna Rada of Ukraine made a historic decision, declaring a National Day of Prayer to be observed every year on February 24, the anniversary of Russia’s full-scale invasion. We are grateful to our lawmakers for recognizing the importance of prayer, spiritual life, and God’s power in strengthening our nation.
On this day, we will remember our Heroes, pray for our brothers and sisters in the occupied territories, for the Ukrainian army, and for the unity of our people—because unity is the foundation of nation-building.
Today, let us remember that Ukraine was recognized as an independent state because of the will of its people, not because post-Soviet politicians embraced democracy and freedom. Ukraine has survived as a democratic European state because its citizens made a decisive choice on the Maidan, standing against pro-Russian forces. Ukraine received vital support from around the world not because the West feared Russia, but because Ukrainians showed the world that the Russian aggressor can and must be defeated.
Now, we look with dignity into the eyes of those who are ready to listen and engage with the Ukrainian government and people. And we must speak with one voice. This unity is more crucial than ever for our future. That is why I appeal to our politicians, military, public, and religious leaders to stand together.
These days, we are witnessing profound spiritual events in the United States. On Sunday, we hear the Gospel parable of the Prodigal Son, reminding us of the embrace of the Heavenly Father, revealed in the arms of Mother Church. Today, many Ukrainians in the United States, Canada, and Europe feel anxious and uncertain: What lies ahead? What is the fate of Ukrainian emigrants far from home? The Church embraces all its children and assures them: I am with you wherever you are. This is our source of strength, our hope, and the essence of the anniversary celebration in Philadelphia, USA.
God, bless Ukraine! God, hear our prayer and grant us the strength to endure these tumultuous times! O Lord, bless the Ukrainian people with Your just and heavenly peace!
The blessing of the Lord be upon you, through His grace and love for mankind, always, now and forever, and for the ages of ages. Amen.
Glory to Jesus Christ!
