Prayers offered for victims of Ivolzhanske tragedy in Sumy Eparchy churches

Russian military struck a bus with civilians in the Yunakivka community area. Photo: Sumy Regional Military Administration

On July 27, 2025, as a result of Russian shelling, civilians in the Sumy district were affected. The Russian military struck a bus with civilians in the Yunakivka community area – in the village of Ivolzhanske. As a result of the shelling, three people were killed, and another 20 civilians were injured. In all the churches of the Sumy Eparchy, prayers for the victims of the tragedy are being offered, reports the eparchy's press service.

Metropolitan Yevlohiy of Sumy and Okhtyrka expressed his condolences, noting that with sorrow he offers prayers for the repose of the souls of the deceased and the healing of the wounded.

"The Church is weeping with those who have lost their loved ones. In our sorrow, there is hope in God, Who does not abandon those who suffer. We pray for peace. We pray for Yunakivka. We pray for Ukraine," said Metropolitan Yevlohiy.

On July 28, in all the churches and monasteries of the Sumy Eparchy, prayers are being offered for those affected.

"May the All-Merciful Lord grant rest to the innocently killed in His heavenly abode, give peace and comfort to grieving hearts, and grant healing, strength, and hope to the wounded," says the message of Metropolitan Yevlohiy.

The Sumy Eparchy expresses deep condolences to all those affected and prays for the cessation of the suffering of the Ukrainian people.

As reported by the UOJ, in Sumy, as a result of another Russian shelling, the Stetensky Church of the UOC was damaged.

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