Ukrainian Catholic ChurchAustralia, New Zealand and Oceania
Vigils Prayer for peace in Ukraine in the Cathedral
February 21, 2024
On Wednesday, February 21, in the Cathedral of Saints Peter and Paul in Melbourne, a three-day vigils prayer dedicated to the 10th anniversary of the Heroes of the Heavenly Hundred and the 2nd anniversary of the full-scale invasion of Ukraine began.
On the first day of vigils, those present had the opportunity to pray the Liturgy of the Presanctified Gifts and the Panakhyda. The divine service was led by Bishop Mykola Bychok, Eparch of Melbourne, in the co-service of the clergy of the Cathedral: Fr. Andriy Mykytyuk, Fr. Myroslav Vons, deacon Michael Zylan, as well as Fr. Ihor Holovko from Perth.
Parishioners of the Cathedral and members of PLAST and SYM gathered in large numbers to honour the memory of the fallen heroes of the Heavenly Hundred and all the newest heroes who gave their lives for a free and independent Ukraine, in particular PLAST and SYM members, and young people from other organisations who were not afraid to defend their country to the last.
After the joint prayer, Bishop Mykola addressed the faithful with a word. Among other things, he shared his memories of the events of the Revolution of Dignity and drew attention to how important, albeit tragic, the next few days are: “During these few days, Ukrainians scattered all over the globe will gather together in churches on prayer, will go to the central squares of the cities for a demonstration, and all in order to make a small contribution from themselves towards a just peace and the victory of our Motherland over the occupier.”
At the end, the Bishop urged those present: “May our fervour not die out in support of the Ukrainian nation. May our strength not leave us in proclaiming the truth about the terrible war in Ukraine. May our hearts not grow cold in fervent prayer to the Lord.”
Prayer vigils in the Cathedral will continue for two more days: February 22 and 23. We encourage all our faithful to come to jointly honour all heroes and pray for peace in Ukraine.
