Metropolitan Gabriel of Nea Ionia and Philadelphia of the Church of Greece described the Ukrainian people as “a unique example of resilience and unity” following his participation in the World Council of Churches (WCC) solidarity visit to Ukraine, which took place from July 14 to 17.
The Metropolitan, who serves as a member of the WCC Central Committee and as a commissioner of the WCC Commission of the Churches on International Affairs, joined the WCC delegation during its meetings with the Ukrainian Council of Churches and Religious Organizations, church representatives, local communities, and government officials.
Reflecting on the visit, Metropolitan Gabriel described it as “a very profound and spiritual experience,” emphasizing that it demonstrated the authentic fellowship of the churches “not in theory but in reality.”
“I am grateful to God for this experience and to the WCC General Secretary for this opportunity to strengthen ourselves in Christ’s mission for love, compassion, and understanding,” he said.
Speaking about the significance of the pilgrimage of solidarity, the Metropolitan underlined the courage of the Ukrainian people amid the ongoing war.
“The Ukrainian people have proven what it really means to fight for your existence and they have given the entire world a unique example of resilience and unity,” he noted.
He also stressed that all members of the WCC delegation stood alongside the Ukrainian people “with courage and spiritual integrity,” expressing their sincere concern for those suffering as a result of the war.
Metropolitan Gabriel further highlighted the importance of such solidarity visits, noting that the World Council of Churches “always was and will continue to be a place for unity, a safe space for dialogue, and a constant witness for peace.”
Concluding his reflections, he called on Christians around the world to continue praying for Ukraine.
“I am inviting you all not to stop praying for better days in Ukraine, for lasting peace and unity among the people of this historic nation. There is nothing more important in our Christian life and journey than to pray and to stand in solidarity with those who suffer. May God bring peace to this region and to the whole world,” he said.
Photos: Marianne Ejdersten/WCC
