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
Archbishop of Albania supports country's accession to European Union
The Primate of the Albanian Church believes that Albania's accession to the European Union will benefit not only the country and its citizens but also Europe itself.
Cyprus Church Synod permits weddings during Nativity Fast
The Sacrament of Marriage is permitted to be performed from the beginning of the Nativity Fast until December 12.
Cherkasy authorities set up surveillance over Orthodox educational institution
The village of Cherniavka became the site of a special operation by law enforcement against an Orthodox gymnasium, where a hidden surveillance camera was installed on a pole.
Metropolitan Tychikos case to be again considered by Cyprus Church Synod
Holy Archdiocese of Cyprus stated that the appeal filed by Metropolitan Tychikos to the Supreme Court could fundamentally change the assessment of the situation.
His Beatitude: The Lord gives people strength to overcome sin
The Primate emphasized that in the New Testament, Christians receive the gracious power of the Holy Spirit to fight against sin.
Met. Varsonofiy сelebrates Liturgy at persecuted UOC parish in Stryzhavka
A UOC hierarch officiated the Nativity service and offered prayers for peace in Ukraine.