World Council of Churches delegation reaffirms support for Ukraine in Kyiv
According to a statement from the OCU press service, the Primate of the Orthodox Church of Ukraine was accompanied by Metropolitan Yevstratiy of Bila Tserkva, deputy head of the Department for External Church Relations.
Metropolitan Epifaniy welcomed the members of the delegation to Ukraine and provided an overview of the consequences of Russia's armed aggression against the country. He emphasized the numerous civilian casualties, particularly among children, as well as the widespread destruction of churches and religious buildings.
He specifically mentioned the significant damage inflicted on the Dormition Cathedral of the Kyiv-Pechersk Lavra as a result of a Russian attack.
Despite these trials, Metropolitan Epifaniy highlighted that the Ukrainian people remain resilient and continue to fight for the freedom and independence of their nation. He called on the international community to sustain its support for Ukraine, encouraging prayers for the country, and expressed gratitude to the World Council of Churches for its steadfast stance and statements in support of Ukraine.
Additionally, the head of the Orthodox Church of Ukraine (OCU) marked the 30th anniversary of the Ukrainian Council of Churches and Religious Organizations. He noted that for three decades, this council has united representatives of various denominations and religious organizations in joint service to society and support for the Ukrainian state, especially during the ongoing full-scale war.
Rev. Prof. Jerry Pillay, General Secretary of the World Council of Churches, stated that the delegation's visit was an expression of solidarity with the Ukrainian people. He praised the resilience of Ukrainians and highlighted the crucial role of interfaith cooperation in providing assistance to those affected by the war. He also congratulated the UCCRO on its 30 years of work.
"During the discussion, members of the World Council of Churches delegation reaffirmed their unwavering support for Ukraine. They condemned Russian aggression as illegal, immoral, and completely unacceptable, emphasizing that using religion to justify the war is inappropriate. They assured the delegation that they would continue to support the Ukrainian people and help disseminate accurate information about the events in Ukraine," the OCU reported.
Members of the Ukrainian Council of Churches and Religious Organizations shared their views on the situation amid Russian aggression, describing the destruction of churches, the persecution of clergy, and the suffering of the civilian population and children. They presented the various social, humanitarian, educational, chaplaincy, and charitable ministries carried out by churches and religious organizations.
Following the meeting, the World Council of Churches delegation visited the residence of the Primate of the Orthodox Church of Ukraine — the Metropolitan's House — where a separate meeting occurred, attended by Metropolitan Yevstratiy of Bila Tserkva and Bishop Raphael of Makariv.
