Metropolitan Epifaniy of Kyiv and All Ukraine on September 6, 2025, led a memorial service at the city cemetery in Cherkasy for the fallen soldiers who gave their lives for the freedom and independence of Ukraine.
Joining the Primate of the Orthodox Church of Ukraine in prayer were Metropolitan Ioan of Cherkasy and Chyhyryn, military chaplains, families of the fallen defenders, as well as the Mayor of Cherkasy, Anatoliy Bondarenko.
In his address, Metropolitan Epifaniy emphasized the importance of prayer and preserving the national memory of fallen heroes.
“Our sacred duty is to remember and to pray. Memory is for us, because we have no right to forget the sacrifice of those who gave their lives for Ukraine. And prayer is for them, because through prayer we show our love and affirm that they live on in spirit,” the Primate said.
He underlined that Ukrainian soldiers gave the most precious gift—their lives—for the sake of the nation’s freedom and independence, and their sacrifice obliges all to continue the struggle for a just peace.
“We are convinced that we will win. For truth is on our side, and where there is truth—there is God, there is victory,” Metropolitan Epifaniy concluded.
After the memorial prayer, the Metropolitan spoke with the families of Ukraine’s modern heroes.
Metropolitan Epifaniy visited Ukrainian defenders in Cherkasy Hospital
Later the same day, Metropolitan Epifaniy arrived on a visit to the city of Cherkasy.
At the city entrance, the Primate of the Orthodox Church of Ukraine was welcomed by Metropolitan Ioan of Cherkasy and Chyhyryn, local clergy, Mayor Anatoliy Bondarenko, and Member of Parliament Serhiy Rudyk.
As part of his visit, Metropolitan Epifaniy, together with the mayor and clergy, visited servicemen undergoing rehabilitation in one of Cherkasy’s hospitals. The Primate blessed the defenders of Ukraine, spoke with them, and offered words of gratitude and encouragement.
The Metropolitan also expressed special thanks to the doctors for their daily work and dedication, wishing them patience, health, strength, and inspiration in their service to people.
Source: pomisna
