On April 3, Metropolitan Epifaniy of Kyiv and All-Ukraine, together with Michael R. Pompeo, former US Secretary of State, visited wounded Ukrainian defenders injured while fighting against the Russian aggression and are currently undergoing rehabilitation.
This was reported by the press service of the Kyiv Metropolia of the Ukrainian Orthodox Church (OCU).
During the visit, the wounded soldiers expressed a warm welcome to the leader of the Orthodox Church of Ukraine and the distinguished American guest who arrived in Kyiv as part of a delegation.
The Primate of the Local Church expressed his gratitude to the new heroes for defending the motherland and provided them with spiritual support. He also reaffirmed his unwavering faith in Ukraine's victory.
"We are grateful for your heroic acts and the support of our international friends. Because of this, we now have a free and united Ukraine. The truth is on our side, and where truth exists, there is God and inevitable victory. We pray for you constantly and ask the Lord to grant us the strength and patience to achieve our ultimate triumph. May the Lord continue to bless Ukraine and the United States of America, as well as all people of goodwill. Glory to Ukraine!" said Metropolitan Epifaniy.
After visiting the defenders of Ukraine, the head of the OCU had the opportunity to talk with Michael Pompeo (US Secretary of State 2018-2021).
Metropolitan Epifaniy expressed his gratitude to Mr. Pompeo, whom he personally knows, and to the American people for their support during these challenging times. He awarded Michael Pompeo the highest honor, the Cross of the Orthodox Church of Ukraine, in recognition of his efforts for the benefit of Ukraine and the protection of religious freedom. The members of the American delegation were also awarded the Cross of Freedom medals.
"The power of spirit can overcome even the most advanced weapons. We resisted, and I believe we achieved a moral victory. The world must uphold the order of international relations and security architecture. We feel the support of the United States of America and are grateful for their bipartisan support. Therefore, we remain confident in the victory of truth and democracy. Evil is always defeated," emphasized Metropolitan Epifaniy.
The Primate of the Orthodox Church of Ukraine also discussed with the American delegation other issues of mutual interest.