The Philadelphia Archeparchy prayerfully commemorated the second anniversary of the Russian invasion

Washington Rally, February 24

The Ukrainian Americans together US supporters of Ukraine gathered at the Lincoln Memorial in Washington, D.C. for a mass rally. In his brief speech, Metropolitan Borys Gudziak conveyed heartfelt gratitude and shared important requests: He thanked the courageous soldiers defending democracy and freedom in Ukraine, expressed his appreciation for the tireless efforts of Americans advocating for Ukrainian freedom and gratitude to everyone praying, advocating, and contributing to the fight for truth and justice. He asked the gathered to reach out to their congressmen and to continue to pray. “Without the Lord we will not win this battle for truth, for justice and dignity”, said the Archbishop.

Prayer Service and the rally in Philadelphia, February 25

Metropolitan Borys led a solemn prayer for peace at the Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception, joined by Fr. Mykhailo Dymyd whose son Artem died defending Ukraine, and with Pavlo Grod, President of the World Congress of Ukrainians, in attendance.

Later, Ukrainian Americans and Philadelphians gathered near the Museum of Art to show their solidarity with Ukraine.

"With their resolve and their sacrifices Ukrainians forced people to rethink what is a human being, what is our destiny. You do not give up your life is you think that death is a black hole, the end. Ukrainians believe in the eternity. How you look at death determines how you live your life. Death is a one sure thing and if you can look death in the eye and say, “You do not have power over me”, you can do what Ukrainians have done over the past two years” said metropolitan Borys Gudziak.

He encouraged everybody to take comfort in the assurance that the Lord is with us when we act in accordance with what is just.

The rally continued with a walk through the city to Philadelphia City Hall.