UOC Primate addresses defenders of Ukraine

Metropolitan Onuphry blessing a soldier. Photo: UOC press service

His Beatitude Metropolitan Onuphry extended greetings to the defenders of Ukraine on their holiday, celebrated this year on October 1. The address was published on the official website of the Ukrainian Orthodox Church.

“On this festive day, I congratulate all of you who, daily and hourly, bear the heroic burden of defending and protecting our native and blessed Ukraine and the entire Ukrainian people – on the Day of Defenders of Ukraine!” the message said.

The Primate of the UOC stressed that military service is a heavy and responsible duty. He noted that during this time of trials the UOC stands together with its faithful and with the entire Ukrainian nation.

“The clergy and faithful of our Church, being an inseparable part of the Ukrainian people, despite hostile propaganda and open enmity artificially spread against us, continue to work for the development and strengthening of the Ukrainian state. They serve in the Armed Forces, engage in volunteer activities, and contribute to the medical, rescue, social-humanitarian, and other spheres of the life of our people,” the address stated.

Metropolitan Onuphry highlighted the exceptional importance of national unity: “Only in steadfast unity can the Ukrainian people labor for the future of a just peace.”

He warned that “any hostile rhetoric or discrimination against Ukrainian citizens, especially believers of the Ukrainian Orthodox Church, serves not unity but deliberate division – something that benefits only our enemies.”

The Primate also urged prayers for the fallen defenders and thanked the military: “for the strength and resilience you show every moment as you defend the integrity of our Homeland and its people from Russian aggression.”

“We believe that through your courage and efforts, our country will see times of peace and prosperity. May God’s blessing be upon you all and upon our Ukraine!” Metropolitan Onuphry concluded.

Earlier, the UOJ reported that President Zelensky signed a law moving the Day of the Cossacks and the Day of Defenders of Ukraine from October 14 to October 1.

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