1800 pilgrims participate in Volyn procession to Pochaiv

The Volyn cross procession approaching the Pochaiv Lavra. August 3, 2025 Photo: @pochayv_lavra_online

From different corners of Ukraine, Orthodox Christians gather at the Pochaiv Lavra for the communal celebration of the feast day of the Pochaiv Icon of the Mother of God. On August 3, 2025, pilgrims from the Volyn region arrived at the monastery. As reported in the commentary of the MIR YouTube channel, 1800 cross walkers participated in the prayer procession.

The pilgrims shared that they were glad to have accomplished this feat: "We did not hide but walked together, prayed communally, and the fact that such a number of us gathered – 1800 people."

According to Mykhailo from the Kovel district, during the procession, the first thing participants of the prayer feat learn is to love their neighbor and show love to the Lord.

"You know that you are going to God Himself, you are going to honor the memory of the salvation of the Pochaiv Monastery from the Tatar army, etc. We come here to feel this grace that fills us in this holy monastery," he said.

The cross walkers shared that they prayed for peace in Ukraine, for their relatives and loved ones, for the Pochaiv Monastery so that it "stands forever". Many of them have been participating in the prayer procession for many years and share with those who have not yet had such an experience but plan to join next time.

"We would wish patience. It is a great feat to make such a journey. First, rethink everything and consider where you are going, with what intention, to feel this love that always awaits us in this holy Lavra. Try at least once, and then the Holy Theotokos will inspire you to go further. First one day, then the second, then the third day. There are many such people who just came to see us off with a handbag, and are with us here today in Pochaiv," they shared.

As reported by the UOJ, the feast day was celebrated at the Holy Spirit Skete on the day of St. Seraphim.

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