1,000 Days of the Full-Scale Invasion and of Gratitude

I thank God and the people.

I am grateful for every sunrise, even when it arrives with air raid sirens and the shadow of danger—because it rises over a free Ukraine.

I am grateful for every sunset, even when it brings the weight of our losses and the foreboding of another restless night—because it closes a day in which Ukraine is still alive.

I thank the soldiers, the volunteers, the chaplains, the medics and first responders, the repair crews and energy workers, the journalists and video reporters.

My gratitude extends to the mothers and fathers, sisters and brothers, children and grandparents in our families, the great Ukrainian global family, the world of people of good will.

I am grateful to countless non-Ukrainians world-wide that pray, advocate, and help with the defense and with the economic and humanitarian challenges.

I thank all who labor tirelessly and give generously—those who, without seeking recognition, quietly bear witness to the boundless depths of love.

My deepest gratitude is to those who have given their lives.

Eternal rest to our fallen warriors and the innocent victims of this war.

Glory to those through whose courage we endure.

God’s truth will prevail!

Metropolitan Borys Gudziak

Prayer for Peace in Ukraine

Heavenly Father, Your Son taught us: "Blessed are the peacemakers, for they will be called children of God." You are the source of true peace, and we become peacemakers when we listen to and preserve in Your word. Therefore, in this time of war, we beseech You: sustain the people of Ukraine by the work of Your Holy Spirit and teach them to be devoted to justice and peace. Grant them wisdom and prudence, strength and perseverance to defend their land from foreign attacks.

We implore You: comfort the afflicted, heal the wounded, free the captives, and convert those who foster aggression and war. Receive and accept the souls of those that have given their lives for their brothers and sisters, the innocent who have been killed, and all the faithful departed into Your Heavenly Kingdom.

Help us all to live according to Your Divine Will. Through the intercession of the Most Holy Mother of God and Blessed Virgin Mary, Queen of Ukraine, grant that those who promote peace persevere in goodness, and those who hinder it find conversion from evil.

For You are the King of Peace and we give glory to You, with Your only-begotten Son, and with Your most Holy, Good, and Life-giving Spirit, now and for ever and ever.