In Ukraine, churches “sustain hope when hope has been tested”

In Ukraine, churches “sustain hope when hope has been tested”

msc

Fri, 07/17/2026 - 15:26

Hundreds of religious officials, diplomats, and representatives from Ukraine gathered in Kiev for a ceremonial reception on 16 July commemorating the 30th anniversary of the Ukrainian Council of Churches and Religious Organisations.

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WCC general secretary Rev. Prof. Dr Jerry Pillay addresses the ceremonial reception commemorating the 30th anniversary of UCCRO.

Photo: Deacon Andrii Sydor/Orthodox Church of Ukraine

Those gathered expressed gratitude for the hope churches are bringing, and lamentation for a war that has caused so much suffering.

Words of welcome were offered by Metropolitan Epiphaniy, chair of the Ukrainian Council of Churches and Religious Organizations, as well as a spokesperson from the Ukrainian Parliament.

World Council of Churches (WCC) general secretary Rev. Prof. Dr Jerry Pillay, who led an ecumenical delegation to Ukraine from 14-17 July, extended warmest congratulations to the Ukrainian Council of Churches and Religious Organisations.

“ Your unity has enabled you to speak…