On the occasion of the Day of Defenders of Ukraine, celebrated on October 1, which coincides with the feast of the Intercession of the Most Holy Mother of God, His Beatitude Sviatoslav, the Father and Head of the Ukrainian Greek Catholic Church, delivered heartfelt congratulations and expressions of gratitude to all those who defend their homeland.
This was reported by the UGCC Department for Information.
According to the Head of the UGCC, the defenders of Ukraine, who create a space for life every day, are true fighters for a just peace — not only for Ukraine but also for Europe and the entire world.
His Beatitude Sviatoslav expressed gratitude to the Ukrainian soldiers for their daily heroism, stating, “We wholeheartedly congratulate them on this holiday and thank them for the fact that we are alive. They fight for us to live freely on our land, often at the cost of their own lives.”
He also emphasized that the Church prays for those who have given their lives for their homeland, as well as for the captives, missing persons, and the wounded. “The Church prays for the soldiers of light and peace who defend human life. We pray for the prisoners, the missing, the wounded, those receiving treatment in medical facilities in Ukraine and abroad, as well as for their families.”
In conclusion, the Head of the UGCC added, “We thank the Ukrainian army for enabling us to continue living, praying, and serving God and people.”