Metropolitan Epifaniy of Kyiv and all Ukraine shared a deeply significant moment in a recent social media post, highlighting a milestone for the Ukrainian Orthodox Church and its people: “This day became a true step forward for our Church and people – in the Far Caves of Kyiv-Pechersk Lavra, filled with joy and reverence, for the FIRST TIME, a prayer in Ukrainian was heard! Together with our abbot, Bishop Avraam of Boryspil, and the brotherhood, we turned to the Lord in this holy place where our venerable fathers rest – our spiritual protectors and teachers of active faith.”
He emphasized the spiritual and cultural importance of this moment: “This prayer became like a bridge between the past and the present, between the generations who created the history of our Church and us, who continue this path. Our task is to preserve what we hold most precious – our faith and spirituality, our native language and identity.”
Metropolitan Epifaniy also addressed the historical context: “The Kyiv-Pechersk Lavra is a special sanctuary for the Ukrainian people, which unfortunately was long under the occupation of the ‘Russian world.’ My heart rejoices that we are gradually restoring historical justice and reviving the true spiritual life of this sacred place.”
Highlighting the ongoing spiritual struggle, he said: “Each such moment becomes an integral part of our further struggle, which will surely end in victory, which we are approaching step by step. Spiritual struggle is no less important than any other. We see how the Russian empire of evil uses religious institutions for its political aims. Therefore, the Ukrainian state and people are called to put an end to this once and for all.”
Looking to the future of worship at the Lavra, Metropolitan Epifaniy assured:
= “Will there be more services here? Absolutely. Remember how everything began in the Upper Lavra: the first service was held at Christmas — even before the calendar reform. And now here, in the Lower Lavra, Ukrainian prayer begins to be heard near our venerable fathers.”
He underlined the unique global significance of the Kyiv-Pechersk Lavra: “The Lavra is a unique place not only for Ukrainians but for the entire world Orthodoxy. There is no other lavra in the world that preserves so many incorrupt relics of the venerable fathers! We received this spiritual abode from our predecessors and are obliged to preserve it for future generations.”
Regarding the Far Caves, he stated: “The Far Caves of Kyiv-Pechersk Lavra are a special place, filled with the spirit and prayers of our saints. I believe that together — the state, the reserve, the Church — we will overcome all challenges. Soon, believers will have the opportunity to visit the holy caves, pray in the churches, participate in services, and lift prayers for the victory of truth, for the victory of Ukraine and for our glorious modern heroes.”
He paid tribute to those defending Ukraine: “Thanks to them, we can rejoice in this event. They stand on the front lines, resisting evil, so that we can restore and build our spirituality in the rear.”
Metropolitan Epifaniy warned of ongoing opposition but remained hopeful: “Unfortunately, the enemy still tries to prevent our success. But together, with God’s help and prayer, we move forward. This is an irreversible process that will surely bring the Lavra to full liberation from the yoke of the ‘Russian world.’ Of course, this path is not easy, and everyone wishes for it to happen as soon as possible. However, we must work daily and persistently to achieve success in our common cause.”
He concluded with a blessing: “May God’s blessing continue to be with all of us!”
Source: Orthodox Church of Ukraine
