Conference of European Churches calls for Christmas truce in Ukraine
CEC advocates for a truce. Photo: Conference of European Churches
The Conference of European Churches (CEC) has issued a heartfelt plea for a Christmas ceasefire in Ukraine, urging all parties to embrace this season of hope and humanity, symbolized by this holiday, according to the organization’s website. The resolution was adopted following CEC consultations on "just peace", held in Warsaw from December 9 to 11, 2024.
The European ecumenical organization, which unites 115 member churches across Europe, called on Russia to halt violence during the Nativity period, emphasizing the significance of compassion and respect for the holiday.
One of the key recommendations from the consultations is a proposal for a prisoner exchange between Russia and Ukraine based on the “all for all” formula as a humanitarian gesture amidst conflict.
The Conference endorsed Pope Francis’s December 8 initiative for a ceasefire on all fronts. The participants emphasised that "the message of Christmas must transcend conflict, offering an opportunity for dialogue, reconciliation, and hope."
The President of the CEC, His Eminence Archbishop Nikitas of Thyateira and Great Britain, remarked: "The child in the manger, Jesus Christ, the Prince of Peace, invites all to embrace the peace offered by God in Bethlehem. All humankind is invited.”
The Warsaw consultations brought together leaders of Ukrainian churches, who shared their testimonies and reports highlighting the urgency of action for peace.
As the UOJ previously reported, Pope Francis called for a ceasefire on all fronts by Christmas.
Read also
SBU told Phanar many UOC bishops would join OCU in 2018, report says
According to a Phanar representative’s account, Ukrainian security services told the Constantinople delegation that many UOC representatives were prepared to attend the OCU’s “Unification Council.” In the end, only two did.
Catholic cardinal visits Ukrainian POWs during trip to Russia
During three days of consultations in Moscow, Cardinal Matteo Zuppi discussed prospects for ending the war in Ukraine.
Ukrainians help restore Serbian Orthodox church in Paris
Orthodox Ukrainians have become regular parishioners of St. Sava Church in Paris and have taken part in its restoration.
Bulgarian Church clergy and laity oppose Phanar head’s visit
More than 2,000 clergy and laity have called for the Ecumenical Patriarch’s visit to be canceled, citing disagreement with his actions and concerns that the visit could legitimize schism.
Unknown intruders break down doors at two UOC churches in Sloviansk
Archbishop Paisiy said OCU activists are suspected of breaking into the churches in Sloviansk, and police have launched an investigation.
Sviatohirsk Lavra prays for murdered monk on 40th day after death
The brethren of the Sviatohirsk Lavra held a memorial service for murdered Monk Varsonofiy, calling on the faithful to pray for the newly departed monk.