Poroshenko: Ukraine must celebrate 500th anniversary of Reformation in 2017 at high level

President Petro Poroshenko instructed Deputy Head of the Presidential Administration Rostyslav Pavlenko to elaborate a draft decree on the approval of measures on celebration of the 500th anniversary of Reformation in 2017 in cooperation with representatives of Protestant communities, President's administration informs.

In the course of the meeting with heads of churches and religious organizations, the Head of State reminded that Ukrainians belong to different branches of Christianity. Next year, the whole world will celebrate the 500th anniversary of Reformation that had and still has a fundamental influence on the European civilization.

“Protestant communities in Ukraine have a long and rich history. Your activity deserves respect. I hope we will organize celebrations of this date at the highest level. Of course, it should be celebrated at the state level in the European context as well,” the President emphasized.

The Head of State reminded that Ukraine would celebrate the Day of Remembrance and Reconciliation and the Day of Victory on May 8 and 9. “I hope for your prayerful remembrance of these dates and your prayer for the deceased and for our land to gain victory worthy of efforts and sacrifices of our people and long-awaited peace,” the President said.