It is a principled decision to allow Easter services and broadcast them live, President of Ukraine to the Head of the UGCC

The parties focused on the challenges facing the state and the Church in connection with the spread of the COVID-19 epidemic, especially in the context of celebrating the largest Christian holiday - Easter. The President noted the active role of the UGCC in countering the spread of this deadly disease.  The UGCC Department for Information report.

However, it was emphasized that the Easter period may be the time of the greatest spread of this virus in our society, and therefore the responsibilities of the Churches of Ukraine and their partnership with the state authorities in countering this danger are now particularly high.

The head of the country explained that the government has made a principled decision to allow the opportunity for the Easter services and their live coverage. It is extremely important to persuade people to stay home and provide them with everything they need to celebrate Easter without leaving their homes. Accumulation of people in or near temples poses a serious threat to their lives and health.

His Beatitude Sviatoslav thanked Mr. Zelensky for acknowledging the efforts of our Church in countering the spread of this disease. The President was informed about the address of the Head of the UGCC, directed to the faithful, to participate as much as possible in Easter worship at home and the opportunity to consecrate the willow branches and Easter baskets in a live streaming format.

The Archbishop also mentioned his video address to Greek Catholics, in which he called for understanding that on April Sunday and Easter, the faithful would not be able to get into the temples. In particular, His Beatitude Sviatoslav appealed to the President for the need to support the National Public Broadcasting Company (“Suspil’ne” TV) and the important role of its central and regional offices, digital and radio platforms for the streaming of Easter services throughout Ukraine. Broadcasting, especially in the current circumstances, is an important tool for ensuring the participation of believers in Easter services in their homes in every corner of Ukraine. “Zhyve” TV, as a resource of the UGCC, is in turn open to cooperation with both national public broadcaster and all other TV channels in this matter. The more accessible we can make the television and radio broadcasts of Easter worships and maximize their spread, the better we will be able to persuade the faithful to stay home for prayer.

At the conclusion of the meeting, the two sides agreed on a format for cooperation between Church and state authorities in different regions of Ukraine and exchanged wishes for the merry Easter holidays and good health.