Dear brothers and sisters!
We, the representatives of Ukrainian churches and religious organizations, who are authorized to organize pastoral care among members of the Armed Forces and other military formations of Ukraine, are concerned about the situation that has developed in Crimea and other regions of our country.
Due to the intransigence of the leaders of the Russian Federation we are on the verge of a fratricidal war, pitting brother against brother. The soldiers of the Russian army and navy today are disregarding the laws of God and man that teach us how to live.
This situation that we have not provoked not only threatens peace and stability in Europe, but also individual lives and souls.
We are proud of the courage, determination and honor that you demonstrate as the defenders of your Nation, as you fearlessly hold back the invaders.
It is an honorable deed, a great deed for our nation, our homeland, and God!
Warriors of Ukraine!
Remember that millions of soldiers have given their lives so that today Ukraine could be independent and free. They are watching you from heaven. Since antiquity they have been fighting for our right to call ourselves Ukrainians. Do not bring shame on that right!
You are standing tall on your own land, for your people, for your country. The moral superiority is on your side. “When a strong man, fully armed, guards his own house, his possessions are safe” (Luke 11.21).
Under these circumstances, we, the citizens of Ukraine, must unite, support and help one another. Pastors and the faithful of our churches are praying for you, for your families, for the unity of the people, for a better future for our country. Divine and human support makes us invincible.
May God give you the strength to survive during this confrontation without losing dignity and honor, because one day everyone of us will have to answer for his actions before the Heavenly Judge.
Glory to God! Glory to Ukraine!
Council Head: M.M. Andrashko
Council Secretary: I.O. Hryb
Note from the Council: The Council for the Pastoral Care of the Ministry of Defense of Ukraine was formed in April 2009. It includes representatives of the major faiths professed by the members of military services: Ukrainian Orthodox Church-Kyiv Patriarchate, Ukrainian Orthodox Church – Moscow Patriarchate, Ukrainian Greek Catholic Church, Ukrainian Autocephalous Orthodox Church, The Roman Catholic Church of Ukraine, All-Ukrainian Union of Evangelical Christians-Baptists, Spiritual Administration of Muslims of Ukraine.
Source: IRS
Translated by Anna Mostovych, edited by Mariana Budjeryn
