UKRAINIAN ORTHODOX CHURCH OF THE USA
OFFICE OF PUBLIC RELATIONS
PRESS RELEASE

METROPOLITAN CONSTANTINE RECIPIENT OF THE
UKRAINIAN GOVERNMENT’S AWARD “FOR MERITS!”

On January 22nd, the day Ukraine observes the unification of all its provinces, Ukraine’s President Victor Yushchenko, by signing the document No.33/2008 presented the “For Merits” awards to Ukrainians – citizens of other countries. Among the recipients of this award was the Primate of the Ukrainian Orthodox Church in the U.S.A. Metropolitan Constantine, who was honored “For his significant personal contribution in popularizing Ukraine’s historical and contemporary achievements and helping establish its positive image in the world”.

Note: The Award “FOR MERITS” goes back to August 18, 1992, when it became the first award given by the President of an independent Ukraine. On September 22,1996 this award was transformed into the “Merit Award III grade”.

The medal itself is in the form of an eight-pronged star with rays emanating from its center. It is made of gold-plated sterling silver. In the center of the star there is a round, blue enamel-covered medallion, with a trident (the official emblem of Ukraine) in the center. It is surrounded by a crimson enameled border with the words “FOR MERITS” and “UKRAINE” depicted thereon.