Historic UOC church in Sumy Region damaged by shelling

Church of the Nativity of the Blessed Virgin Mary in Yunakivka village. Photo: Sumy Eparchy

The Church of the Nativity of the Blessed Virgin Mary, a UOC church in the village of Yunakivka in Sumy District, was damaged by Russian shelling. According to the press service of the Sumy Eparchy, the church is a national heritage monument and one of the most renowned architectural landmarks of the Sumy region.

The chief architect of Sumy Oblast, Volodymyr Bykov, reported on the extent of the destruction and shared photos of the damage alongside historical images of the church.

Built in 1806, the Nativity Church is an example of early classicism and a symbol of Sumy Oblast. It is prominently featured on the coat of arms of Sumy District as a representation of the region's historical heritage and spiritual depth. In the past, the Church of the Nativity was the spiritual center of Yunakivka.

"On behalf of the Sumy Eparchy, we express our heartfelt condolences to the Orthodox community of the village and call for prayers for peace and the preservation of our holy sites," stated the diocesan press service.

As the UOJ previously reported, in Sumy, the UOC is praying for the repose of those who lost their lives during another attack by Russia.

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