'We do not learn the true cost of peace from textbooks': OCU Primate on World War II

Metropolitan Epifaniy, the Primate of the Orthodox Church of Ukraine, shared these thoughts on the Day of Remembrance and Victory over Nazism in World War II:

“We do not learn the true cost of peace from textbooks. It is written in the tears of mothers, the ruins of homes, and the names of fallen heroes, as well as innocent civilians who have lost their lives. Today, Ukraine once again serves as a shield for Europe, standing against the bloodthirsty Russian aggression that brings hypocrisy, hatred, violence, and death.

History has already demonstrated the outcomes of totalitarian regimes and the dangers of contempt for freedom and disregard for human dignity. When evil is not met with an adequate response, it resurfaces, adopting different banners and slogans but pursuing the same grim goal: to subjugate, destroy, and kill. This is why Ukraine’s struggle is not just for its own independence; it is also for the right of all people to live in freedom and security. It emphasizes the principle that evil must be exposed, halted, and punished.

Days of remembrance and reconciliation are not about forgetting or silently accepting injustice. They remind us of the importance of truth and accountability for past wrongs, and that true peace cannot exist without justice. We cannot speak of reconciliation while killings, destruction, and human suffering continue.

Today, we prayerfully remember all those who have fallen in wars, both past and present. This includes soldiers and civilians, adults and children, all whose lives were cut short by the cruelty of war. Their memory is our duty, a call of conscience, and a reminder of the invaluable nature of human freedom.

May the Lord grant eternal rest to the souls of all the innocent who died, strengthen those who defend Ukraine, and provide our people with the resilience needed to navigate this challenging path toward a just peace. Eternal and bright memory to the fallen!” he noted.