The Ukrainian Council of Churches and Religious Organizations published an address to the people of Ukraine on the eve of Christmas and New Year. Religious leaders assured that through their prayers, words, and acts of kindness, they support "a nation undergoing fiery trials of war and harsh onslaught."
Representatives of religious communities wished wisdom for the authorities that would lead to victory over the enemy and the reconstruction of the state. They also wished for Ukrainians to overcome all that weakens us: corruption, discord, domestic violence, and other sins and shortcomings, as stated in the document we present in full.
Dear Ukrainians!
On behalf of the religious community, which constitutes a significant part of civil society, we address all of you on the eve of significant religious holidays and the New Year 2024.
Believers from various churches and religious organizations continue, through their prayers, words, and acts of kindness, to support our people undergoing the fiery trial of war and a severe onslaught.
At this time, it is crucial that our spirit does not diminish. Therefore, we wish all of you God's grace and strength, unity, and hope that even if anyone turns away from us in this world, God will not abandon people of goodwill.
God continues to be with the displaced, persecuted, widows, and orphans, with those who have lost loved ones, who are wounded or sick, and with those who selflessly, despite fatigue, continue to protect us from cruel and treacherous enemies.
We wish wisdom to all authorities in the decisions they make. May these decisions lead to victory over the Russian aggressor and be beneficial for the restoration and development of Ukraine.
We wish that our nation remains united in 2024, defending not only our state's freedom and homeland but also freedom from evil, safeguarding family and morality—elements without which there cannot be a better future for society and the country. To achieve this, we must overcome what weakens us: corruption, discord, domestic violence, and other sins and shortcomings.
May the spiritual joy of the holidays multiply our strengths and help us, amid today's challenges and trials, to walk the bright path of truth and goodness!"