The Third Forum of Military Chaplains of the Orthodox Church of Ukraine officially opened today within the walls of the Kyiv Orthodox Theological Academy, located on the grounds of the Church’s central spiritual center, the St. Michael’s Golden-Domed Monastery.
Opening the event, Metropolitan Epifaniy of Kyiv thanked God for His abundant blessings, noting that with divine help, the Church has overcome many challenges in establishing the institution of Ukrainian military chaplaincy during the full-scale war. He acknowledged that many difficulties still remain, but affirmed that they will be addressed gradually, wisely, and steadfastly, resisting the evil present in daily life.
The Primate reminded participants that today the Church commemorates St. John Chrysostom, who taught that the devil is defeated through patience. “Patience does not mean passivity or inaction,” he emphasized. “True patience is the ability to continue toward your goal despite obstacles, to preserve inner strength, and to resist the destructive power of evil.” Patience, he added, is an essential virtue today—one that enables people to endure suffering and hardship without falling into despair.
Quoting the Gospel — “By your patience, possess your souls” (Luke 21:19) — he noted that Ukrainians continue to endure the horrors of war with determination. Military chaplains remain constantly alongside the defenders of Ukraine, offering spiritual support, encouragement, and strength, helping bring closer the ultimate victory. “The Ukrainian army is spiritually strong — and we have seen this. And the weapon in the hands of a spiritually strong soldier always prevails.”
The forum gathers chaplains from across the country to share their experiences, exchange insights, support one another, and renew their strength. “No one is immune from exhaustion,” he said. “But our strength is in unity, in brotherhood. When one grows tired or falls, another extends a hand. We lift each other up, and together we find new strength — new ‘wings’ — to continue our sacred mission.”
He concluded with a message of hope and unity: “Together, in unity — forward! With God, we will triumph! Glory to Jesus Christ! Glory to Ukraine!”
