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.
Read also
Bancheny Monastery reports provocation
The UOC monastery in Bancheny has reported a provocation by unidentified individuals.
Romanian Church to hold joint prayer for peace in Ukraine
On the fourth anniversary of the beginning of the war in Ukraine, special prayers for an end to the hostility will be offered in all churches of the Romanian Patriarchate, both in the country and abroad.
Armenian bishops call on authorities to stop Church persecution
At a meeting in Austria, hierarchs of the Armenian Apostolic Church reaffirmed their faithfulness to Catholicos Karekin II of All Armenians and called on the authorities to stop the persecution of the clergy.
Italian media: Ukrainian authorities persecute the country’s largest confession
The Italian outlet L’Identità reported on mass searches, the arrests of clergy, and the ban on the Ukrainian Orthodox Church, which it describes as the largest Church in Ukraine.
Festival marking Orthodox Youth Day held in UOC's Volyn Eparchy
In Lutsk, the UOC’s annual youth forum brought together parish groups, clergy, and participants in a creative program for Orthodox Youth Day.
London mayor switches on festive Ramadan lights
In London, the Muslim mayor inaugurated Ramadan illuminations: a central street was decorated with a “Happy Ramadan” sign and Islamic-style ornaments.