"Protection of religious freedom": Halal and kosher rations introduced in AFU
On August 6, DOT signed a memorandum with the Muslims of Crimea and the representative of the Chief Rabbi of Ukraine. Photo: DOT
The Armed Forces of Ukraine are beginning to introduce halal and kosher meals for servicemen practicing Islam and Judaism. As reported by the press service of the Department of Rear Support Organization (DOT), the initiative is aimed at "ensuring the protection of the rights and freedoms of the AFU servicemen to freedom of religion."
The corresponding memorandum was signed by DOT representatives, the spiritual administration of the Supreme Mufti of Crimea, and the Chief Rabbi of Ukraine.
As stated by the executive director of DOT, Andriy Sozansky, they are trying to create all conditions for the military practicing Islam and Judaism.
"The least we can do for servicemen practicing Islam or Judaism is to provide basic conditions under which they can perform combat tasks without deviating from their religious beliefs and cultural characteristics," said Sozansky.
The parties agreed to work together on the development, testing, and implementation of dry rations that meet the canonical requirements of halal and kosher. Religious organizations will provide expert recommendations, and food manufacturers have already begun adapting technological processes to new standards.
The department added that the initiative is part of a broader course by the Ministry of Defense towards "human-centric" provisioning.
As reported by the UOJ, earlier the Ministry of Defense of Ukraine approved an updated technical specification for the daily field food set. According to the innovations, not only regular but also halal and kosher dry rations will be purchased for the AFU servicemen.
Read also
St. Nicholas Church parish of Dnipro delivers aid to Kherson region residents
Believers of the Dnipropetrovsk Eparchy carried out a humanitarian mission to the Kherson region.
Celebrations honoring miraculous icon of Theotokos begin at Pochaiv Lavra
The festive All-Night Vigil at the Pochaiv Lavra began with an akathist before the miraculous Pochaiv Icon of the Most Holy Theotokos.
Metropolitan Nathanael consecrates iconostasis in Nosachevychi
The ruling bishop of the Volyn Eparchy led the Divine Liturgy at the St. Equal-to-the-Apostles Mary Magdalene Church, where he consecrated the iconostasis.
Police officers in England invited to observe Ramadan fast in solidarity
British police officers of all faiths have been encouraged to observe the Ramadan fast alongside their Muslim colleagues to better understand the significance of Islam's holiest month.
Canadian military advises chaplains to avoid prayers and references to God
Canada's Armed Forces have introduced new guidance encouraging military chaplains to replace traditional prayers with neutral "spiritual reflections" at official ceremonies to accommodate service members of all beliefs, including atheists.
Faithful at Lavra urged to remain loyal to Christ despite trials
During a prayer vigil, a priest recalled the Gospel examples of the Apostle Peter and St. Mary Magdalene, Equal-to-the-Apostles, speaking about the power of faith.