At a time when humanity still faces many challenges from the unprecedented global phenomenon of the COVID-19 pandemic, we are now confronted by another global crisis.
As Exarch of the Ecumenical Patriarch in the United Kingdom, my diverse flock includes devout Christians from both Ukraine and Russia.
The heartbreak we feel for them and their loved ones abroad during this tragic time cannot be put into words. The events of the past few days bring deep pain and sadness to all our hearts.
The Archdiocese of Thyateira and Great Britain embraces a common expression of Orthodox Christian unity that transcends any ethnic, linguistic, and cultural divisions.
Thus, together with our collective call for an immediate ceasefire, we beseech all the Christians in the United Kingdom to come together in unity and increase their prayers and special supplications for the God-loving Ukrainian faithful, as well as for all people around the world who are experiencing the scourge of armed conflict.
May the black clouds of despair, violence, and hatred soon dissipate in order for the heavenly Light from above to shine brightly down on the pious faithful in Ukraine.
