Metropolitan Onuphry congratulates Ukrainians on Independence Day

His Beatitude Metropolitan Onuphry. Photo: UOC

The Primate of the UOC His Beatitude Metropolitan Onuphry congratulated Ukrainians on the 35th anniversary of the country's independence. In his festive address, the Archpastor called on citizens to inner harmony, reports the UOC Information and Educational Department.

His Beatitude emphasized that in the realities of war, this holiday unites all people in prayer. "On this day we turn to the All-Merciful God with gratitude for His generous gifts," the Archpastor addressed the faithful, "and we pray for all those who labor for the good — who defend, rescue, heal, teach, and develop us."

Metropolitan Onuphry called on Ukrainians to strengthen national unity through concrete deeds, not loud slogans. The Archpastor recalled the instruction of the holy Apostle Paul on the necessity of preserving peace and unanimity.

According to the Primate of the UOC, the true strength of a country lies in the equal rights of all its citizens, when within society there is no humiliation, contempt, or exclusion of any part of the people from public life. "Behold, how good and how pleasant it is for brethren to dwell together in unity," His Beatitude quoted the words of the psalmist David.

The Primate separately addressed compatriots in the diaspora and called on them to support one another in a foreign land. Metropolitan Onuphrius urged the faithful to look to the future and to entrust their plans to the Lord.

Previously, the UOJ reported that His Beatitude Onuphry congratulated Ukrainians on Statehood Day.

Read also