During a powerful and heartfelt homily following the Divine Liturgy on Sunday, February 23, 2025, Ecumenical Patriarch Bartholomew reiterated his unwavering support for Ukraine. He emphasized that true peace must involve Ukraine as an equal participant, rather than being dictated by force. The service, held at the Church of St. Nicholas, concluded with a memorial for the Ukrainians who lost their lives defending their homeland on the third anniversary of Russia’s full-scale invasion.
Patriarch Bartholomew, speaking in English, addressed the ongoing suffering of the Ukrainian people, stating that they are not only fighting for their territorial integrity but for their very existence. He condemned the devastation caused by the war, highlighting the lives lost, homes destroyed, and communities displaced.
Recognizing Ukraine’s historical resilience, the Patriarch mentioned the Holodomor and the attempts to erase the Ukrainian identity. He emphasized that no external force could break the spirit of a people determined to preserve their faith, language, and culture.
Linking the war in Ukraine to a moral test for Europe and the world, Patriarch Bartholomew urged global leaders to resist disinformation and uphold justice. He stressed the importance of choosing truth over deception and justice over oppression.
Calling for a just and lasting peace, the Patriarch insisted that Ukraine must be fully included in the peace process to safeguard its sovereignty. He also commended President Volodymyr Zelenskyy’s efforts in defending Ukraine’s independence.
As the world entered the period of Great Lent, a time of reflection and renewal, the Patriarch closed with a message of hope, likening Ukraine’s resilience to Christ’s resurrection after his Passion.
Expressing the unwavering commitment of the Ecumenical Patriarchate to Ukraine, he pledged to continue advocating for justice and standing beside those who suffer, envisioning a future of peace, security, and liberty.
Consul General of Ukraine in Constantinople, Roman Nedilskyi, also addressed the congregation in English during the service, which was attended by various dignitaries, clergy, and members of the Ukrainian community.
Read the full homily below:
Three years have passed since the unjust and devastating invasion of Ukraine by the Russian Federation. During this time, countless lives have been lost, homes destroyed, and entire communities displaced. This war has left deep wounds—not only upon the land but also in the hearts of those who suffer.
We reaffirm the unwavering solidarity of the Mother Church of Constantinople with Ukraine and pray for those affected by the conflict. We condemn the aggression, support Ukraine’s sovereignty, and stand against imperial ambitions that have no place in today’s world.
As we gather in prayer, we remember those who have perished, the wounded, the displaced, and those longing for home. We pray for the children taken from their homes and the prisoners of war, asking for solace for their loved ones and their safe return.
Ukraine’s history is marked by hardship, including the Holodomor and attempts to erase its identity. Yet, the Ukrainian people have remained steadfast, preserving their faith, language, and culture despite persecution. Today, they fight not just for territory but for survival.
True peace cannot be imposed by force; it must involve Ukraine as an equal participant. We continue to pray for the leaders to find a peaceful resolution that affirms Ukraine’s right to exist without fear.
We commend President Zelenskyy for his unwavering dedication to defending and safeguarding Ukraine’s sovereignty and territorial integrity.
It is imperative that the global community remains vigilant and discerning, rejecting false narratives and misinformation. We must not tolerate ongoing oppression or compromises that erode basic human rights. The foundation for our future must be rooted in international law, self-determination, and mutual respect—not coercion and subjugation.
Today, as we observe the Last Judgment according to the Orthodox Church calendar, we are reminded of the significance of our actions. We are held accountable for how we confront adversity, injustice, and tyranny. The conflict in Ukraine is not merely a geopolitical struggle; it is a moral crossroads for Europe and the world, calling for a definitive choice between truth and deceit, justice and oppression. The decisions made today will shape the course of history, determining whether integrity triumphs over cruelty and hatred.
As we enter Holy and Great Lent, a period of introspection and spiritual renewal, we seek a renewed commitment to truth, reconciliation, and peace. Just as Christ’s Resurrection follows His Passion, we hold faith that Ukraine will rise again, dispelling the darkness of war and ushering in a new era of righteousness.
The Ecumenical Patriarchate stands in unwavering solidarity with Ukraine and its devout citizens. While we yearn for a swift resolution to the conflict and the healing of the wounded, we will continue to uphold truth, advocate for justice, and stand with those who suffer. We eagerly anticipate a future where Ukraine and all nations can coexist in peace, security, and freedom.
May the Lord grant Ukraine the strength and perseverance needed to endure. May He console the grieving, heal the afflicted, and liberate the oppressed. And may He lead humanity towards a future where virtue reigns, truth is revered, and harmony prevails.
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