UOC's Sumy Eparchy reports on evacuation of residents from dangerous areas
Anyone in need of evacuation assistance is asked to call: 095 511 57 55. Photo: Sumy Eparchy
The rehabilitation center for warriors and civilians of the Sumy Eparchy organizes free evacuation of local residents from border communities. This initiative is led by its chairman – Archpriest Alexander Petrenko, who shared the details, reports the press service of the Sumy Eparchy.
“It was an emotionally very difficult day. It’s hard to call me a sentimental person, but… It’s not about the dogs, of which there were almost a dozen in an hour, nor about the drones – we have already gotten used to all sorts of junk flying towards us from the 'brothers.' The most tragic moment was a dog running after the bus and crying out in anguish. It wasn’t howling or barking – it was just crying. Next to me, a blind old woman was crying, and her son was crying too. At that moment, I held back my tears, but now I can’t anymore…” shared his feelings Father Alexander after the evacuation of residents from Uhroidy on March 21.
On March 22, there were two evacuations. Father Alexander and his team evacuated people, belongings, and animals from three families in Krasnopillia.
“I’m very tired, but emotionally everything is fine. Tomorrow I will go to Uhroidy twice – they are already waiting there,” he reported.
On March 23, during another evacuation from Uhroide and Krasnopillia, Father Alexander was joined by journalist Eldoradas Butrimas from Lithuania. On that day, they managed to evacuate two families, as well as a dog and a cat. During the trip, the volunteers encountered a new danger – an FPV drone.
“Well, how did we meet? It just flew close – the impressions are unforgettable!” the priest recounts.
Father Alexander expressed gratitude to all those who care and support this initiative financially and with fuel, noting that the collected funds will be enough for bus repairs and assistance to those in need.
Anyone in need of evacuation assistance is asked to contact by phone: 095 511 57 55 – Archpriest Alexander Petrenko.
There is also a constant need for financial support for fuel and vehicle repairs: 5168 7450 3105 3298.
As reported by the UOJ, the St. Nicholas Monastery of the UOC was damaged by shelling from the Russian Federation in Myropil.
Read also
Israeli authorities plan to entrust Al-Aqsa security to religious Jewish activists
Police have begun recruiting religious Jews and far-right activists as part of efforts to strengthen Israeli control over the Al-Aqsa Mosque compound in Jerusalem.
Yelensky: Now churches oppose LGBT but will compromise for EU integration
Ukraine’s top official on religious affairs, Viktor Yelenskyi, said tensions over LGBT issues are inevitable, but churches may eventually compromise on LGBT-related issues as Ukraine advances toward EU membership.
Moldovan Church reports media attack on its primate
The Moldovan Orthodox Church said negative media coverage of Metropolitan Vladimir is the first stage of a broader campaign aimed at discrediting the Church and undermining its authority in society.
MPs accuse soldier of religious hostility over anti-migrant rally
A Ukrainian veteran said lawmakers’ complaint against him over an anti-migrant rally was an attempt to intimidate the military community and silence public criticism of sensitive social issues.
Poroshenko's party says the Word of God in UOC is “enemy bullet”
Members of European Solidarity claim that the Word of God in the hands of a patriot is a shield, while in the mouth of a “Moscow priest” it is an enemy bullet.
Estonian Church to file complaint with ECHR over anti-church law
The Estonian Orthodox Christian Church said the court ruling failed to protect believers’ rights and may force parishes to seek justice at the European Court of Human Rights.