On March 20, 2025, Metropolitan Epifaniy, Primate of the Orthodox Church of Ukraine, met with the Head of the Khmelnytskyi Regional Military Administration, Serhiy Tyurin. The meeting took place at the Metropolitan Residence and was also attended by Archbishop Pavlo of Khmelnytskyi and Shepetivka, as well as Serhiy Hamaliy, advisor to the Head of the Security Service of Ukraine.
The discussion focused on the current situation in Khmelnytskyi region and the broader national context, as the country continues to confront the challenges of Russia’s full-scale invasion. Particular attention was given to the issue of supporting internally displaced persons (IDPs), a large number of whom have sought refuge in Khmelnytskyi.
The participants also addressed the implementation of various social initiatives aimed at assisting vulnerable groups across society. A significant part of the conversation centered on the religious and interfaith climate in the region, as well as the critical role of the Church in preserving the moral and spiritual strength of the Ukrainian people.
“Every Ukrainian contributes to building our state,” said Metropolitan Epifaniy. “But to preserve our national identity and strengthen Ukraine, we need spiritual unity. Without a strong, united Church that brings the Ukrainian people together in love for God and the Motherland, it is difficult to build a resilient Ukraine.”
Governor Serhiy Tyurin, for his part, expressed gratitude to Metropolitan Epifaniy for his ongoing spiritual support of the Ukrainian people and for his prayers for Ukraine.
