Archpastoral Letter of the Council of Bishops of the Ukrainian Orthodox Church of the USA and Diaspora: 38th Anniversary of Chornobyl Nuclear Disaster
"As we approach the solemn anniversary of the Chornobyl Nuclear Disaster, let us unite in prayerful observance and remembrance of the lives lost and the ongoing impact of this tragedy. As we commemorate the 38th anniversary of this Nuclear Tragedy, our hearts are heavy with the weight of recent events in world politics. In the midst of ongoing conflicts and aggressions, we are called to remember not only the lives lost in the tragedy of Chornobyl but also those affected by the current war in Ukraine.
Thirty-eight years ago, the world witnessed the devastating consequences of the nuclear catastrophe at the Chornobyl Nuclear Power Plant. The effects of this disaster continue to be felt by countless individuals and communities, reminding us of the fragility of human life and the importance of stewardship of God’s creation.
Today, as we witness the genocidal actions of the Russian Federation which destroy not only human life but the environment as well, we are compelled to renew our commitment to prayer and action.
In the face of such challenges, let us draw strength from our faith and unite in prayerful observance. Let us lift our voices in remembrance of the victims of Chornobyl and all those affected by the ongoing invasion in Ukraine. Let us also pray for wisdom and courage for our political and religious leaders, that they may act with integrity and compassion in the pursuit of peace and justice.
As members of the Ukrainian Orthodox Church of the USA and Diaspora, we are called to be ambassadors of Christ's love and agents of healing in a broken world. Let us use this anniversary as an opportunity to recommit ourselves to the values of compassion, justice, and environmental stewardship. Through our prayers and actions, may we bear witness to the sanctity of life and the sacredness of God's creation.
May the grace and peace of our Lord Jesus Christ be with you all as we lift our hearts in prayer and solidarity".
With paternal blessings and love in Christ,
+Antony, Metropolitan
+Jeremiah, Archbishop
+Daniel, Archbishop