His Beatitude Metropolitan Vladimir of Kiev and All Ukraine and the Holy Synod of the Ukrainian Orthodox Church Address People

On 3 November 2004, in connection with tense political situation in the country, His Beatitude Metropolitan Vladimir of Kiev and All Ukraine addressed the people of Ukraine on behalf of the Holy Synod of the Ukrainian Orthodox Church with the following words:

 

Respected compatriots! Dear brothers and sisters!

 

‘All things pass, and this will pass too’. It is known that these words from the Ecclesiastes were written on the ring of the wise king Solomon. We believe that disorders, which has stirred up our country, will also pass, but we will live here, look to the faces of one another, work shoulder to shoulder, together build our state together and revive the temples of human souls.

 

Today, as ever, the Church is together with her people. She has never divided and will not divide people along the lines of their background, social status. nationality, language or political convictions. In the Church there are neither oranges, nor white-blues, but all are the children of God and our brothers and sisters in Christ. The preservation of peace in society in the whirlwind of the recent events has shown that people are wiser than politicians are. Politics must be left to politicians, and must not be allowed into our families. Political liking or antipathy should not separate parents and children, spouses, friends or co-workers. Politics should not sow the weeds of hatred and evil in our hearts. Therefore, together with the Apostle, I ask you: ‘If possible, so far as it depends upon you, live peaceably with all’ (Rom 12:18). All people are entitled to opinions and convictions of their own, but no one should not thrust his opinion upon another person at any price. Respect and love one another and thus you will witness that you are children of the one God, one nation and one country.

 

On instructions from the Holy Synod of the Ukrainian Orthodox Church I address now archpastors, pastors, monastics and all the faithful of our Church. The Church remains outside politics. Therefore go to all people, but not with political slogans or discussions, but bring them the word of truth, love and peace. Reminds all of them that the Christmas Fast is a time of repentance, reconciliation and mutual forgiveness so that we could worthily meet Christ the Saviour.

 

A threatening spirit of hatred and evil can be conquered only by fast and prayer, humility, love and mutual forgiveness. May the blessing, grace, mercy and peace from God the Father and our Lord Jesus Christ be with us all in truth and genuine love!

 

See also:

• Religious situation in Ukraine