UKRAINIAN ORTHODOX CHURCH OF THE USA

CONSISTORY OFFICE OF PUBLIC RELATIONS

PRESS RELEASE

Ukrainian Orthodox Church of the USA Offers Prayers Following the Terrorist Attack in Brussels

Following the most horrific, deplorable, and senseless acts of violence and terror in Brussels, the Council of Bishops of the Ukrainian Orthodox Church of the USA expresses its solidarity with the people of Belgium and extends heartfelt prayers to the families of our brothers and sisters who were killed or injured as a result of the attack. Our hearts and minds are prayerfully also with the emergency responders, law enforcement agents, and security officers.

After learning of events in Brussels, His Eminence Metropolitan Antony stated, “Ukrainian Orthodox Church of the USA stands alongside all people of faith and good will, and supports the efforts of religious leaders – especially His Eminence Metropolitan Athenagoras of Belgium – to forge mutual understanding, respect and reconciliation among all people… During this time of tragedy, as we experience pain, sorrow, and indignation, we must remain inseparably connected to our faith, especially to the salvific events of Cross and Resurrection, the ultimate source of comfort, solace and peace.”

The following is a short quote from the Statement of His Eminence Metropolitan Athenagoras of Belgium on Terrorist Attack in Brussels:

"We call upon the whole world, Christian or not, become a shield against terrorism. To become a body against the storm of grief that overwhelms the planet. In war declared by terrorism in Europe we will become messengers of peace.

As Bishop and Pastor, as president of the Orthodox Episcopal Assembly I urge religious leaders of Belgium to unite our voices, to join forces against the wickedness and violence. I urge religious leaders of Belgium to condemn any kind of terrorism and to give our own testimony consolation and sympathy to our affected brothers."

MEMORY ETERNAL!   Вічна пам'ять!