Metropolitan Epifaniy of Kyiv and All Ukraine reflected on the importance of unity, faith, and spiritual resilience in a social media post following a Divine Liturgy celebrated on the Feast of the Translation of the Relics of the Holy Right-Believing Prince Igor of Chernihiv and Kyiv.
The Primate of the Orthodox Church of Ukraine officiated at the Divine Liturgy in the stavropegial Transfiguration Cathedral in Kyiv’s Teremky district, joined by hierarchs, clergy, local parishioners, and Ukrainian defenders.
In his message, Metropolitan Epifaniy expressed gratitude for the opportunity to gather once again in prayer, noting the spiritual joy of worshiping together and offering petitions for unity, victory, and the establishment of a just and lasting peace in Ukraine. Special prayers were also offered for Ukrainian servicemen and women defending the country.
“We particularly feel the touch of God’s invisible grace upon every human soul,” the Metropolitan wrote. “When we experience this touch, we are filled with joy, uplifted in spirit, and find God’s peace in our hearts.”
Reflecting on the ongoing challenges facing Ukraine, Metropolitan Epifaniy emphasized that faith remains a source of strength and endurance. He noted that while the nation continues to face daily attacks and hardships, Ukrainians must not lose hope or spiritual resolve.
“God strengthens our spirit, and without this strength it is impossible to prevail,” he said. “The enemy seeks to break us morally and spiritually, but we will not fall. We have no other homeland, and with God’s help we can overcome every obstacle.”
The Metropolitan also underscored the importance of communal worship and mutual support during difficult times, encouraging the faithful to continue gathering for prayer and spiritual encouragement.
“Together, with God’s help, we are a great force and capable of overcoming any enemy,” he stated.
During the service, sacred works by Ukrainian composers were performed by the Hierarchical Choir under the direction of Protodeacon Oleksandr Tarasenko. Metropolitan Epifaniy also presented high church awards to Ukrainian defenders and faithful laypeople. He additionally congratulated Ihor Lysov, chairman of the cathedral’s parish council, on his name day and awarded him the Order of the Holy Archangel Michael.
Following the Divine Liturgy, prayers were offered in memory of the late Metropolitan Volodymyr (Sabodan), after which flowers were laid at the monument dedicated to the distinguished church leader.
Concluding his message, Metropolitan Epifaniy reiterated the importance of solidarity and prayer, declaring: “In unity is our strength. O God, grant us unity.”
