Zelensky hosts "military breakfast" in Kyiv Lavra's Refectory Church
Zelensky's address in the Refectory Church of the Lavra. Photo: President's website
On December 6, 2024, Ukraine's Armed Forces Day, President Volodymyr Zelensky delivered a speech in the Refectory Church of the Kyiv-Pechersk Lavra during a "military prayer breakfast," reports the President's website. A platform was constructed for his address, while attendees were seated at tables. Screens on either side of the platform displayed a close-up view of the President.
In his speech, Zelensky thanked chaplains "who stand alongside our warriors on the front lines and do not hide from everything they endure there.." He also urged "all denominations" to engage in "vital and necessary" chaplaincy work. However, he did not clarify whether this included the Ukrainian Orthodox Church (UOC), which has been prohibited by the Verkhovna Rada from having chaplains.
The event was attended by leaders and representatives of various religious organizations, including the head of the Orthodox Church of Ukraine (OCU), Epifaniy Dumenko, Roman Catholic Bishop Vitaliy Kryvytskyi, representatives of Protestant denominations, Muslims, and others.
Previously, the UOJ reported that on November 4, 2024, the head of the radical nationalist group "Brotherhood", Dmytro Korchynsky, held a "prayer gathering" in the Refectory Church of the Holy Dormition Kyiv-Pechersk Lavra.
Read also
Oldest UOC church in Sumy marks its patronal feast
Metropolitan Yevlohiy led celebrations at the city’s oldest parish, where the wonderworking Pustynno-Hlynska Icon of the Mother of God was brought for the feast.
Hundreds of faithful in Bulgaria welcome Hawaiian Icon of the Mother of God
Patriarch Daniel led the ceremonial welcome for the myrrh-streaming icon in Sofia and thanked the ROCOR Synod for arranging its visit.
Pope Leo XIV approves new Vatican Сonstitution
The new Fundamental Law establishes the right of non-cardinals to head Vatican administrative bodies.
Church commemorates Prophet Elijah
The Church honors the memory of the prophet who lived in the ninth century BC and became an example of unwavering faith for Christians throughout the ages.
UOC priest’s home damaged in drone strike on Poltava
The home of Archpriest Kostiantyn Fisun, rector of St. Seraphim Church in Poltava, was damaged in a drone attack.
Kyiv Theological Schools begin enrollment for catechetical courses
The Kyiv Theological Academy has announced enrollment for the St. Peter Mohyla Catechetical Courses for laypeople.