Metropolitan Epifaniy I of Ukraine consecrated a chapel dedicated to the Holy Archangel Michael on May 20, 2026, at the premises of the 7th Carpathian Border Guard Detachment of the State Border Guard Service of Ukraine in Lviv.
Concelebrating with the Primate of the Orthodox Church of Ukraine were Metropolitan Makariy of Lviv, Metropolitan Dymytriy of Lviv and Sokal, local clergy, military chaplains, and representatives of the border guard leadership. Ukrainian defenders, regional officials, and local authorities also attended the ceremony.
During the service, Metropolitan Epifaniy offered special prayers for Ukraine as the country continues to face the hardships of war. Prayers were also raised for Ukrainian soldiers, civil authorities, the faithful people of Ukraine, and for the repose of those who lost their lives defending the country.
Addressing those gathered after the consecration, Metropolitan Epifaniy emphasized the spiritual importance of the new chapel for Ukrainian servicemen.
“This place, this church, is special because it will serve as spiritual support for our modern heroes, the sons and daughters who are defending our territorial integrity,” he said. “The Church supports, prays, and does everything possible to help our military in this difficult struggle. We are defending our freedom, and freedom and independence are great gifts from God.”
The Primate also urged Ukrainians not to lose faith and unity during the war.
“We will win. This is an axiom,” Metropolitan Epifaniy stated. “We must not lose heart, but instead unite and continue walking this difficult path. It is hard and thorny, but with God’s help we are able to overcome it.”
At the conclusion of the event, Metropolitan Epifaniy presented church awards to Ukrainian defenders in recognition of their sacrificial service.
Source: posmina.info
