Archbishop of Canterbury sends message of solidarity to Ukraine

The Archbishop of Canterbury, Sarah Mullally, delivered a message of support and prayer to the people of Ukraine during the nation's National Prayer Breakfast in Kyiv on August 24. Unable to attend in person due to commitments in Burundi, the Archbishop sent the Bishop of Worcester, Hugh Nelson, to represent the Church of England at the gathering.

In her address, Archbishop Mullally emphasized the importance of prayer in fostering unity and justice during times of conflict. She explicitly rejected the notion of "holy war," stating that warfare is a tragedy rather than an expression of divine will. The message honored the sacrifices made by Ukrainians and expressed hope that the country would maintain its commitment to religious pluralism and reconciliation.

During his visit to Kyiv, Bishop Nelson met with His Beatitude Metropolitan Epiphanius. The Archbishop’s message concluded with a prayer for courage and wisdom for the Ukrainian people as they continue to face the ongoing effects of the war.