UOC Primate: Man was created by the Lord for peace, not war

Primate of the UOC. Photo: uoc-news.church.ua

On October 8, 2024, during a sermon at the Church of St. Sergius of Radonezh in Kyiv, His Beatitude Metropolitan Onuphry reminded the faithful that humanity was created for peace, not war.

"Today we ask St. Sergius to enlighten those who are at war and those who attack, and we ask them to cease their actions. Because we are created by the Lord for peace – not for war," said His Beatitude Metropolitan Onuphry.

His Beatitude reminded the congregation that St. Sergius of Radonezh is known in the history of the Orthodox Church as a peacemaker because, during the periods of conflict among the principalities of Ancient Rus', he always stood between the opposing sides, asking them to reconcile.

He also emphasized that God created people for mutual love, not to kill each other, steal, or wage war.

"We pray today that St. Sergius, even now, in such a difficult period, may enlighten those who attack and encroach upon others' lands and property, and that God may forgive them and us. We pray for reconciliation among ourselves, for peace in the hearts of all those involved in war, for God created us for peace, not for war," concluded the Primate of the UOC.

As reported by the UOJ, His Beatitude officiated the Liturgy at the capital's Church of St. Sergius of Radonezh.

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