On January 24, the Primate of the OCU, Metropolitan Epifaniy, spoke out to the Ukrainians on the accumulation of Russian troops on our borders and the threat of a full-scale invasion. “We, the Ukrainian people, do not want someone else's things, but only protect our own: our parents' land, our own home, family and neighbors. So the truth is on our side. And where there is truth, there is God's help and victory,” the head of the OCU stressed.
"The enemy wants to intimidate us, quarrel, force Ukrainians to destroy their homes with their own hands, as it has happened more than once in our past. Understanding this, we must remain prudent, not succumb to provocations, and postpone internal secondary disputes in the face of an external threat.
Unity is our strength!
The aggressor attacks when he hopes to achieve his goal. Our common task is to show the Russian rulers: it is impossible to defeat Ukraine, we will fight and defend ourselves and our native land until victory!
Dear brothers and sisters, Ukrainian people!
During the three decades since the restoration of our state independence, we have repeatedly faced challenges that seemed incredible. However, each time we overcame them, with God's help and joining forces in the struggle for truth, dignity and freedom. So we must do now – and with the help of the Almighty, we will achieve victory and just peace.
Since the beginning of the Russian aggression, our churches have been continuously praying for liberation from the invasion of strangers, for God's guardianship over our defenders at the front, for the relief of fate and the release of prisoners and hostages. I bless you to offer additional special prayers for our homeland in all temples of the Orthodox Church of Ukraine the next Sunday, January 30.
I call on the Ukrainian people, our army and the state to receive the Lord's blessing!
Great and One God, save Ukraine for us!", Metropolitan Epifaniy says in his appeal.