National Prayer Breakfast held in Kyiv
The event was held under the patronage of President Volodymyr Zelensky, as reported by Ukrinform.
Among the distinguished foreign guests at the National Prayer Breakfast were Keith Kellogg, U.S. Special Representative for Ukraine; Elijah Brown, Secretary General of the Baptist World Alliance; Edward Graham, Chief Operating Officer of Samaritan's Purse International Mission; and Bob McEwen, Chairman of the National Policy Council of the Republican Party of the United States.
Leaders of the world’s largest Christian communities also sent messages of support to the breakfast participants.
In his message, Pope Leo XIV expressed his solidarity with the Ukrainian people, who endure daily suffering, and called for prayers for peace and tranquility. "I join in prayer with all Ukrainians and those who care about the fate of your country, pleading with Almighty God to end the war and grant Ukraine a just and lasting peace. I pray for the protection of the daughters and sons of Ukraine, who suffer daily from inhumane bombings and attacks. I also ask the Lord to expedite the safe return of civilian and military prisoners, as well as children who have been deported or unlawfully separated from their families. May He heal wounded families, provide comfort to those who have lost loved ones, and offer spiritual renewal to the entire Ukrainian people," wrote the pontiff.
Ecumenical Patriarch Bartholomew emphasized the spirit of unity, prayer, and hope that connects clergy, government officials, and supporters of Ukraine from around the world. He called for peace, justice, and support for those who courageously defend Ukrainian territory.
Archbishop Stephen Cottrell of York, UK, expressed in his message his hopes that the event would inspire people to strive for peace and justice in Ukraine. He urged support for those who have lost loved ones or have been left homeless, and encouraged honoring the Armed Forces and spiritual leaders, promoting reconciliation among all people of faith.
The Prayer Breakfast is an annual interfaith event that continues a tradition that began in 1953 in the United States. This event brings together Ukrainian officials, international supporters of Ukraine, clergy representatives, military personnel, chaplains, families of fallen heroes, as well as charitable organizations and youth leaders.
