Metropolitan Evlogy expresses condolences to victims of Sumy shelling

Victims of the shelling in Sumy. Photo: Kordon.media

Metropolitan Evlogy of Sumy and Akhtyrka has expressed his condolences regarding the aftermath of a Russian airstrike on civilians in the city of Sumy on November 17-18, 2024, as reported by the diocese's press service.

In his address, he described the incident as a "barbaric shelling" that brought death and destruction.

The metropolitan reported that 84 people were injured in the airstrike, including 11 children. Eleven victims, six of whom are children, are in intensive care. Eleven people lost their lives, two of whom were children. Metropolitan Evlogy expressed deep sympathy to the families of the deceased and noted that the recovery efforts are ongoing. Volunteers and emergency services are working at the site to assist those affected.

"The Lord hates this: hands that shed innocent blood" (Proverbs 6:16), he reminded in his address, condemning the actions of the aggressors. The metropolitan called on everyone to intensify prayers for the injured and for a peaceful future for Ukraine: "We will endure because our faith is unshakable."

In light of the tragedy, November 18-19 have been declared Days of Mourning in Sumy. Following Metropolitan Evlogy's directive, all churches and monasteries of the Sumy Diocese will offer prayers for the repose of the deceased, the healing of the injured, and God’s help to all those affected by the Russian airstrikes.

As previously reported by the UOJ, an ancient UOC church in the Sumy region was also damaged by the shelling.

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