Metropolitan Luke expresses condolences to victims of attack on Zaporizhzhia

An aerial bomb fell directly onto the territory of the city market in Zaporizhzhia. Photo: akzent.zp.ua

An aerial bomb fell directly onto the territory of the city market in Zaporizhzhia. Photo: akzent.zp.ua

On November 21, 2025, Metropolitan Luke of Zaporizhzhia and Melitopol expressed his condolences to the families of those killed in the airstrike on Zaporizhzhia the previous evening, the eparchial press service reported.

“Parting with loved ones is always terrifying, and in such circumstances – all the more so. There are no words capable of easing your pain, but please know this: the Church stands with you, we share your grief, and we pray for everyone touched by this tragedy,” Metropolitan Luka assured.

“An airstrike has taken the lives of peaceful people, has wounded and maimed those who were simply at home or walking nearby. I lift up prayers for the innocently slain, for the swift recovery of the wounded, and for the Lord to strengthen you – those who are now enduring a heavy loss. May the All-Merciful Lord, through the prayers of His Most Pure Mother and all the saints of the land of Zaporizhzhia, grant peace and strength to your hearts!” the metropolitan wrote in his prayerful message.

Five people were killed as a result of the Russian strike, and five wounded victims remain in hospital, one of them in critical condition.

As the UOJ reported, the Kharkiv and Ternopil eparchies have also extended condolences to those affected by the shelling.

Shevchuk to Ukrainians in Latvia: Whatever your former church, join UGCC

The head of the UGCC urged all Ukrainians living in Latvia to join his Church.

UOC priest’s father killed in AFU military service laid to rest in Sumy

UOC clergy held a funeral service for Ukrainian serviceman Serhii Taptunov at Holy Trinity Cathedral in Sumy. He was buried at a city cemetery with military honors.

Patriarch Daniel calls for dialogue to overcome divisions in Church

The Bulgarian Primate explained the significance of joint celebrations with Patriarch Bartholomew amid ongoing disagreements.

Patriarch Bartholomew says his see ensures unity in Christ’s Body

Speaking at the Bulgarian Church's Holy Synod, Patriarch Bartholomew declared that the Archbishop of Constantinople serves as the unifying link and guarantor of Orthodox unity.

Patriarch Daniel calls for preserving Church unity

In a sermon at St. Alexander Nevsky Cathedral in Sofia, the Bulgarian Primate emphasized humility, repentance, and fidelity to the Orthodox faith as the path to overcoming divisions.

Bulgarian and Constantinople Patriarchs attend Liturgy at Sofia Cathedral

Metropolitan Barnabas presided over the Liturgy at St. Alexander Nevsky Cathedral in Sofia as part of celebrations marking two anniversaries of St. John of Rila.