In a show of solidarity with Ukraine, several English cathedrals are set to host prayer services to mark the anniversary of the Russian invasion of Ukraine on February 24, 2022. The cathedrals will offer prayers for the people of Ukraine and for an end to the conflict that has claimed thousands of lives.
The initiative, which is being led by the Anglican Church, has received support from other faith communities, including the Roman Catholic Church and the Ukrainian Greek Catholic Church.
The prayer services will be held in cathedrals across England, including in London, Liverpool, Manchester, York, Canterbury, Durham, and Winchester. They will be open to people of all faiths and none, and will offer a space for reflection and contemplation on the ongoing crisis in Ukraine.
The Archbishop of Canterbury, Justin Welby, has spoken out in support of the prayer services, saying: “As people of faith, we believe in the power of prayer to bring about peace and reconciliation. We stand in solidarity with the people of Ukraine at this difficult time and offer our prayers for an end to the conflict and for the well-being of all those affected.”
The Bishop of London, Sarah Mullally, added: “The invasion of Ukraine has caused immense suffering and hardship for many people, and we must not forget the human cost of this conflict. By coming together in prayer, we can offer comfort and support to those who are suffering and show our commitment to working towards peace.”
The prayer services will take place on February 24, 2023, exactly one year after the start of the Russian invasion of Ukraine. They are part of a wider campaign to raise awareness of the situation in Ukraine and to call for an end to the conflict.
In addition to the prayer services, other events will take place across the UK, including talks, exhibitions, and cultural events, to mark the anniversary of the invasion and to show support for Ukraine.
The Ukrainian ambassador to the UK, Vadym Prystaiko, has welcomed the initiative, saying: “We are grateful to the English cathedrals for their support and solidarity with Ukraine. The prayer services will send a powerful message of hope and peace to the people of Ukraine, and we thank everyone involved for their efforts to raise awareness of the situation and to call for an end to the conflict.”
As the world watches the ongoing crisis in Ukraine, the prayer services offer a reminder of the power of faith and the importance of coming together in times of crisis to offer support and hope for a better future.
