The Ecumenical Patriarch Bartholomew presided over the Divine Liturgy on Friday, December 6, 2024, for the feast of Saint Nicholas, Archbishop of Myra in Lycia, the Wonderworker, at the namesake church named in his honor in the Balat district of Constantinople. This church has been designated to address the spiritual needs of the Ukrainian-speaking community in Constantinople.
In his sermon, Patriarch Bartholomew mentioned the war in Ukraine and criticized Patriarch Kirill of Moscow for supporting Putin's inhumane policies, Orthodoxtimes reports.
“The unwavering care of the Mother Church of Constantinople also extends to the faithful and severely tested people of Ukraine, who have endured nearly three years of a horrific war waged by the Russian Federation. The upcoming feast of Christmas, the day that proclaims “peace on earth”, should compel all to work towards a definitive end to the war with a just and lasting peace for Ukraine. We pray unceasingly for the swift and full recovery of the wounded, the repose of the souls of the victims, and the comfort of their families in Ukraine and Russia alike. Today, we offer special prayers to Saint Nicholas for those Russian clergy and laity who support their suffering Orthodox brethren in Ukraine and face harsh persecution and imprisonment for opposing the inhuman policies of President Putin and the un-Christian rhetoric of Patriarch Kirill. May their example awaken consciences both within and beyond their country.”
The Patriarch expressed gratitude towards Bishop Adrianos of Alicarnassos, “who diligently cares for the needs of his region and actively supports the Ukrainian-speaking parish here, embodying the true spirit of the Phanar.” He wished him a swift recovery after a recent accident and thanked the community’s Church Committee for their contributions.
Among the attendees were Metropolitan Joachim of Bursa, the Consul General of Ukraine in Constantinople Roman Nedilskyi, Archons of the Ecumenical Patriarchate, members of the Ukrainian community, and pilgrims from abroad.