UOC Hierarch Expresses Condolences to Families of Those Killed in Chuguev Shelling
His Grace John called the shelling of civilians a manifestation of cruelty and sin and called upon the faithful to intensify their prayers for the repose of those killed.
On June 9, 2026, the ruling hierarch of the Izyum Diocese Archbishop John addressed his flock regarding the death of residents of the city of Chuguev. The hierarch received the news of the tragedy with deep sorrow and pain. This is reported by the press service of the Izyum Diocese.
"With deep sorrow and pain in my heart, I received the news of the tragedy that befell our land - the death of peaceful residents as a result of enemy shelling," stated His Grace John in his address. "In one moment, the lives of innocent people were cut short, among whom was a pregnant woman."
The Archbishop emphasized that such violence has no justification. "The enemy strike that treacherously took the lives of peaceful residents is another manifestation of cruelty and sin that has no justification either before people or before God," said the hierarch. "Together with you, I bow my head in deep sorrow for those whose earthly life was so suddenly and tragically cut short."
His Grace called upon the community to remain strong in faith and unity. "In these moments of difficult trial, we will not fall into despair," emphasized the UOC hierarch. "Our strength is in faith, unity, and sincere prayer. We know that earthly life is a gift from God, and no violence is capable of taking away from a Christian eternity with God." The Archbishop reminded of the Gospel words that one should not fear those who kill the body but are unable to kill the soul.
According to information from the head of Kharkiv Regional Military Administration Oleg Sinegubov, three people died in the shelling of Chuguev. The victims were men aged 56 and 70, as well as a 22-year-old pregnant woman. Three more elderly parishioners received medical assistance due to acute stress reaction.
As SPJ reported, UOC priests conducted funeral services for those killed in the rocket attack on Dnipro.
