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Your Eminences,
Your Grace,
Esteemed Consul General of Ukraine in Istanbul,
Distinguished Consuls General,
Reverend Fathers,
Beloved members of the local Ukrainian community,
spiritual children in the Lord,
This morning, we have gathered in the historical Holy Temple of Saint Nicholas, which is the spiritual home of the local Ukrainian community, to pray and solemnly commemorate the souls of all those lost during the ongoing struggle for freedom within your homeland during the last decade.
Ten years ago, the world witnessed the bravery and sacrifice of the “Heavenly Hundred” and the determined spirit of the Revolution of Dignity. Meanwhile, two years have already passed since the full-scale invasion of Ukraine by the Kremlin, in a conflict that appears to have no end in sight. The wounds left by this unjustifiable act are still fresh, and the pain is still palpable. Thus, we have gathered today to honour the memory of the lives lost and reflect on the profound impact of their courage and resilience.
On Independence Square in Kyiv and throughout Ukraine, ordinary men and women rose in defiance of corruption, abuse of power, and oppression. They stood together in a peaceful protest, united by a shared vision of freedom, justice, and European integration. Despite facing unimaginable hardship and violence by authorities who were supposed to protect them, they refused to back down, demonstrating the power of togetherness and the strength of the human spirit. Shoulder to shoulder with a common goal, the citizens were able to make a tangible change for the betterment of their country.
The “Heavenly Hundred” are not just martyrs for their country; they are symbols of hope and inspiration for people around the world. Their sacrifice serves as a reminder that even in the darkest of times, the flame of liberty cannot be extinguished. Their courage challenges us to stand up for what is right, even when the odds are stacked against us, as during the ongoing situation.
The invasion of Ukraine by Russian forces is a stark example of the kind of injustice and submission that the Church must decry. It cannot be justified or vindicated. It is an assault on the dignity and sovereignty of a people who have long strived for their self-determination and long suffered under the yoke of tyranny. It violates the fundamental principles of justice and peace that lie at the heart of our faith.
Therefore, despite the challenges, we encourage Ukrainians not to lose hope and to put aside any differences so that they can achieve their goals together, ensuring that the loss of those who battled for their motherland will not be in vain. We believe in their victory and hope to celebrate it as soon as possible together with all of you.
On this day, we not only remember the sacrifices of countless Ukrainians, but also recommit ourselves to the principles for which so many people gave their lives. As we remember the victims of war and oppression, let us stand together in solidarity, united in our determination to build a Ukraine where such honourable principles and rights are upheld for all.
As people of faith, we are called to stand up for what is right and to speak out against oppression and totalitarianism wherever it may occur. The Russian invasion of Ukraine is a stark reminder of the enduring presence of evil and hate in our world and the urgent need for all people of goodwill to come together in opposition to injustice.
In calling the international community not to ignore the ongoing bloodshed, the Holy Great Church of Christ reminds all that it is here with the members of the local beloved Ukrainian community and throughout the world as they continue their struggle towards a brighter future.
Βeloved in the Lord,
Let us work tirelessly for much-needed reconciliation and a just peace, knowing that God is with us in all of our struggles. May the memory of all those who offered their lives in favour of Ukraine’s freedom be eternally blessed, and may their sacrifice inspire us to build a world where peace, justice, mercy, and love reign supreme.
May God give rest to the souls of the unjustly lost and be with you always.
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