In the midst of the ongoing war in Ukraine, the Ukrainian Orthodox Church of the USA (UOC of the USA) stands as a beacon of hope, tirelessly working to serve those affected by the war. With compassion and dedication, the church continues its mission of providing essential aid to the residents of pre-occupied towns and villages in the Donetsk region.
Led by Metropolitan Antony and Archbishop Daniel, the UOC of the USA has been instrumental in delivering vital resources such as food, water, and nutrition to those in need. Recognizing the dire circumstances faced by many, the Church also purchases and delivers basic medicine and nutrition supplements to the elderly and homebound, ensuring that no one is left without essential care.
One significant effort of the church's humanitarian work is evident in the town of Petropavlivka, where refugees from Bahmut, Toreck, and Avdiivka have sought shelter. Here, the UOC of the USA has played a crucial role in distributing food and medical supplies, providing much-needed support to displaced families.
This humanitarian aid is carried out in close cooperation with Metropolitan Serhiy of the Donetsk Eparchy of the Orthodox Church of Ukraine. Together with Very Rev. Fr. Kostyantyn Kuznetsov and his wife Natalia, the church leadership coordinates efforts to ensure that aid reaches those who need it most, despite the challenges posed by the conflict.
Archbishop Daniel, deeply moved by the devastation witnessed in Ukrainian towns and villages, has condemned the actions of those who perpetrate violence in the name of religion. He has spoken out against the endorsement of genocidal actions of Russia by leaders of the Russian Orthodox Church (who recently designated the invasion of Ukraine as a “holy war”), emphasizing the urgent need for international support in the face of invasion.
In a passionate plea to the United States Congress, Archbishop Daniel has called for bipartisan support for the Ukrainian Aid bill, urging politicians to set aside political agendas in favor of humanitarian action. He emphasizes that the world is watching the response of the American people and their elected representatives, highlighting the moral imperative to stand in solidarity with Ukraine during this critical time not only in formal expression but in actions, just as we witnessed the aid of the United States of America being provided to Israel in time of Iranian attack.
Indeed, as the conflict rages on, the efforts of the Ukrainian Orthodox Church of the USA serve as a testament to the power of compassion and solidarity in the face of adversity. Through their unwavering commitment to serving those in need and advocating for international support, they offer hope and assistance to the people of Ukraine, demonstrating the true spirit of humanitarianism in action.
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